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Ema Stark. 


Frontispiece. 



ERNA STARK 


Story of Con|ijienije 


MARY E. IRELAND, 


PHILADELPHIA : 

yimerican Baptist Publication Society, 

1420 CHESTNUT STREET. 





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1 



ERNA STARK 


A STORY or CONSCIENCE. 



Translated from the German of Elise von Fernhain 


BY 

MARY E. IRELAND. 


* - - ^ • 

\ 

X 

PHILADELPHIA : 

AMERICAN BAPTIST PUBLICATION SOCIETY, 
1420 Chestnut Street. 





Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1892, by the 
AMERICAN BAPTIST PUBLICATION SOCIETY, 

In the OiEce of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. 


CONTENTS, 




PAGE 


CHAPTER I. 

On The Strand, 5 

CHAPTER II. 

Then and Now, 24 

CHAPTER III. 

A Morning Walk, 41 

CHAPTER IV. 

New Impressions, 58 

CHAPTER V. 

Help in Need, 71 

CHAPTER VI. 

Herr Stark’s Promise, 89 

CHAPTER VII. 

Father and Daughter, 105 


3 


4 


CONTEJsTS. 


PAGE 

CHAPTER VIII. 

Through Darkness to Light, 123 

CHAPTER IX. 

Clinging to the Cross, , 136 

CHAPTER X. 

Pastor Muller’s Counsel, 150 

CHAPTER XL 

An Unexpected Meeting, 168 

CHAPTER XII. 

The Confession, 182 


ERNA STARK, 


CHAPTER I. 

ON THE STEAND. 

I S it then really spring? Has nature awakened 
from her winter sleep ? Have the swelling buds 
on tree and shrub at length broken their brown cover- 
ings, and clothed themselves in the splendor of their 
delicate and fragrant robe of green ? 

In the fields and forest can the answer be given, in 
the hundred fold ways in which summer proclaims 
her coming — the voices of myriads of insects, the 
thousand-voiced concert of forest singers welcoming 
the long-expected guest. 

Different, however, is it upon the shore of the sea. 
There seeks the eye in vain for tokens of spring. 
There echoes not the nightingale’s song, nor appears 
the tender green of early verdure. Yet the sea has a 
beauty of its own, independent of outward accessories, 
and is ever unchanged by winter snows, or summer 

6 


6 


ERNA STARK. 


suns. As the Swiss mountaineer longs for the heights 
when away from them, so does the inhabitant of the 
coast long for the sea, with its never-ceasing melody 
ever proclaiming the greatness of its Creator. 

It was evening, and the strand of the North Sea 
was free from pedestrians. Later in the season, the 
cities would give up their denizens, free to roam, and 
the cottages near the strand would be filled with 
guests. In a secluded yet beautiful spot sat, one 
evening, a gentleman, past middle age, gazing 
thoughtfully upon the sun as it sank to its ocean 
bed — an accustomed sight to him, yet one that was 
ever new. The forest was back of him, and the tops 
of the taller trees were listlessly swaying in the even- 
ing breeze. 

This gentleman was Herr Ludwig Stark, a person 
of wealth and leisure, as his manner and attire be- 
tokened. His hair was tinged with gray, and he had 
not the appearance of one in good health ; yet, while 
having the sad expression of one not at peace with 
himself, he was handsome, and of impressive presence. 

At length the sun sank from view, leaving a rosy 
path of light across the placid sea ; and at the same 
moment the bells of a neighboring church rang out 
upon the hitherto quiet air. 


ERNA STARK. 


7 


It is the eve of the Christian’s Sabbath/’ thought 
he ; how long, how very long it seems, since I have 
allowed that sound to hold significance and happiness for 
me. In my happy childhood and youth, the sound of 
those bells thrilled my heart with solemn joy ; now 
the only feeling is that of unrest, and a longing for 
something, I know not what, except it be for the 
innocent faith and hope of that happy time.” 

Yes, the bells which ushered in the blessed Lord’s 
Day recalled those happy times, when he, a merry child, 
played upon this strand under the eyes of his parents. 
In the forest back of him he and his young compan- 
ions had roamed in search of nuts and flowers, and 
his boat had sped lightly over the blue waters of the 
sea, which in storm and sunshine was alike dear to 
him. 

Then in later years his clear boyish voice had 
joined in sweet hymns of praise, in the gray old 
church ; and with what humble and grateful feelings 
did he receive the rite of baptism in the blue waters 
of this same beautiful sea, at the hands of Herr Muller, 
his once loved pastor, while his parents stood by, 
their eyes dimed with happy tears. 

How vividly came to his mind a boating contest, 
when he upon this very spot received the laurel 


8 


ERXA STARK. 


wreath as victor, placed upon his brow by his loved 
Marie, and afterward received the blessing of her 
parents and his upon their betrothal ! Then as the 
years sped on, how often had he sat here with his be- 
loved wife, his Marie, watching the gambols of his 
little Erna as his parents had watched him. 

Here had he held sweet communion with her, 
when her declining strength warned them that she 
would not long be with him, and when she was taken, 
it was the sea that gave him comfort in his great be- 
reavement, speaking in its blue-capped waves of God’s 
power and love. It was the sea that gave him hope 
and longing to live for the sake of little Erna ; here 
he had prayed for submission, and his prayer had 
been answered; for in those days Ludwig Stark 
walked with God, and was happy in his love and 
obedience. 

Then as the years passed on, a fair sweet face had 
won his heart ; and he gave Erna a mother, amiable 
and kind, but totally unfit for training an immortal 
soul ; and he was easily persuaded by her to allow 
Erna to go to a school in Switzerland to obtain the 
education which could not without trouble to herself 
be obtained at home. 

Then a daughter was born to them which the young 


ERNA STARK. 


9 


mother had named Phillis, and whom Erna had never 
seen. She had been seven years from home, though 
now her return was daily expected. 

The face of Herr Stark, which had been serene, al- 
most peaceful, as he called to mind his youthful days, 
became overcast when he thought of his wife, and the 
perplexed, unhappy look which had characterized it 
returned. 

Fredrica,^^ said he to himself bitterly, ^^you are 
the joy and the curse of my life; had I never known 
you I would still be the happy Christian I once was.^^ 
Scarcely were the words uttered, when a charming 
little girl of six years sprang from a little hillock back 
of him, and ran toward him with outstretched arms, 
laughing gleefully. 

Is it mamma you are talking to ? questioned she, 
looking about her. Where is she ? I do not see her.^’ 

No, Phillis, your mother is at the house; but how 
did you get here without my seeing you ? But a few 
moments ago you were up the shore, playing in the 
sand.’^ 

I came here because I saw you.’^ 

But where is Mademoiselle Hortense ? ques- 
tioned Herr Stark, gazing with tender pride upon his 
lovely little daughter. 


10 


EKNA STARK. 


She has not come back yet. She went to see the 
gardener about the flowers and ferns mamma wishes 
for the table to-morrow. She is always glad to get 
away from me, papa ; she sees so many people to talk 
to, and does not wish me to hear what they say.^^ 

No ; children should not always hear the conver- 
sation of grown persons. No doubt you hear many 
things you should not,^^ he continued, with a sigh. 

Yes, that is what Mademoiselle Hortense says,^’ 
replied the child, eagerly. 

But where have you been, Phillis, during the 
absence of your governess ? 

I was with that lady who gave me the pretty 
shells and pebbles.^^ 

‘‘Did she give you some to- day inquired Herr 
Stark, more for the purpose of watching the varying 
expression of the beautiful child than for any interest 
he had in the conversation. 

“No, but she told me some pretty stories. Hark, 
papa, to the bells ringing ; they say, ‘ Come to church 
to-morroAV ; come, come to church to-morroAAq come, 
come.’ I am going, papa.” 

“ What do youknoAV of church, Phillis?” inquired 
her father, in a depressed tone. 

“ I do not know anything ; but I wish to know. 


ERNA STARK. 


11 


and that is why I am going. The strange lady told 
me that I would hear beautiful music, and would 
learn much of the good God, and of some one else 
who loved little children, but I have forgotten his 
name.’^ 

Phillis,” said her father, your mother would 
be vexed if she knew the lady was telling you these 
things, and perhaps would not let you visit her 
again.” 

The words, and particularly the tone of his voice, 
made an impression upon the child, and she remained 
silent for some time. 

But I will go to the church to-morrow,” said she 
at length ; the music there is lovely.” 

How do you know ? ” 

I heard it ; Mademoiselle Hortense took me there 
once, but though she wanted me to go in, she said I 
dare not set my foot over the door sill.” 

Hortense was quite right,” responded her father, 
quite right.” 

No, she was not right,” said the little girl, in the 
tone of a spirited and self-willed child ; the strange 
lady said that everybody should come.” 

Even from the lips of my little child am I con- 
demned,” thought Herr Stark. She gives voice to 


12 


EXKA STARK. 


my thoughts, and confirms the precepts of my early 
youth.’’ 

The father and daughter remained silent for some 
time, and then Herr Stark, arousing from his ab- 
straction, strove to bring back the smiles to the sweet 
face of the child. 

There is a beautiful butterfly, Phillis,” said he ; 

don’t you wish to catch it ? ” 

Where?” cried the little one eagerly, as she 
sprang up and looked about her. 

The brilliant insect eluded her grasp, but at that 
moment Hoi^tense hurried toward her, bearing a 
fragrant bouquet from the gardener, and Phillis was 
filled with delight. 

They then returned home in the eompany of Herr 
Stark, who on the way purchased a doll for Phillis, 
and all thought of the conversation upon the beach 
was put out of her mind for the time. 

They walked slowly along until they reached the 
antique dwelling in the main street of the harbor- 
town. In this homestead had a long line of Herr 
Stark’s ancestors dwelt, and its solid elegance be- 
tokened Vv^ealth and eulture in not only those who 
now occupied it, but likewise in those who had suc- 
cessively inherited it. 


EENA STARK. 


13 


The entrance was massive, and sculptured figures 
and richly carved wood work ornamented the broad 
hall and stairway. Comfort and order reigned within 
and without the luxurious home. 

The drawing-room, or the salon, as it was named 
since the coming of Fredrica, was handsomely fur- 
nished in modern style, for the young wife had much 
taste, and resolved that this room should not give 
token of the antiquity which characterized the others. 
It was brilliantly lighted, and into it Phillis rushed 
to show the new doll to her mother. 

Herr Stark and Phillis had only expected to find 
the mother there to receive them. Instead a young 
and beautiful lady arose from the sofa and hast- 
ened forward, while Frau Fredrica arose also, and 
embraced little Phillis. 

In the blond beauty of this lady, it was not diffi- 
cult to recognize the mother of the child, the resem- 
blance between them being very great, heightened by 
the toilet of blue and white which both wore. She 
was indeed lovely in form and feature, and had not 
yet reached the age of thirty. 

The other lady was of style very different, having 
coal-black eyes, and a brilliant complexion, and was 
in a dark costume singularly becoming. 


14 


ERNA STARK. 


For a moment there was a pause of surprise on the 
part of Herr Stark; then he drew near, and the young 
lady clasped him about the neck and embraced him 
heartily. 

Dear, dear father exclaimed she, joyfully. 

^^My darling Erna!^^ cried he, returning iier 
embrace. 

This is what came of your long promenade,^^ said 
Fredrica, smilingly ; for two hours at least she 
has been here. You had been gone only a few 
minutes when a telegram came from her, and I sent 
the carriage to the station to fetch her. She is 
charmed with all the improvements I have made 
during her absence.*^ 

^^Yes, mamma certainly understands the art of 
making old things ne^. She has made of my room a 
fairy bower. I cannot be sufficiently grateful for her 
thoughtful kindness,’^ said Erna, pleasantly. 

Herr Stark was in the meantime gazing attentively 
at his daughter, whom he had not seen since he visited 
the pension three years before, as she had not been 
home in all the seven years of school life. 

He could not remove his eyes from her ; he was 
endeavoring to trace in her some resemblance to her 
mother, the wife of his youth, but in vain. Like his 


ERNA STARK. 


15 


Marie, she was graceful in appearance and winning in 
manner, but in face and feature she strongly re- 
sembled himself. 

Had he hoped otherwise, or was he happier not to 
have this reminder of the past? By his side was his 
young and beautiful wife, his Fredrica ; was not that 
sufficient happiness for him? Was she doubly dear 
because he had offered his faith a sacrifice upon the 
altar of her love ? 

Phillis, in the meantime, was becoming impatient. 
She was not accustomed to being overlooked for such 
a length of time, so she pressed forward, and gazed up 
at her sister with wide-open eyes of delight at this 
new interest in her life. 

Erna knelt, and clasped the little girl in her arms, 
and pressed a kiss upon her whke forehead. 

You are my little sister,’^ said she, my precious 
little sister, and I hope we will love each other 
dearly.’’ 

My sister ! Are you the sister Erna ? ” said Phillis, 
somewhat bewildered. “Yes, I will love you, for you 
are beautiful ; but not so beautiful as my mamma.” 

“ You cannot imagine what a mad worshiper of 
beauty Phillis is,” remarked Fredrica, smilingly. 
“ The doctor, — oh I forgot, you would not know to 


16 


KRNA STARK. 


whom I alluded, — Dr. Fortescue says the character- 
istic is more strongly developed in Phillis than in any 
child he ever saw.^^ 

I am not surprised at that/^ replied Erna, cheerily ; 
^^she sees you at all times, and I can remember that 
for the short time I was at home after you came, I 
also was a mad worshiper of beauty, as were all 
about the place.^^ 

Little flatterer,’^ said her stepmother, well pleased; 
a love for the beautiful is born in people : it cannot 
be acquired. You both possess by nature the gift of 
discernment, which appreciates that which is agreeable 
and discards that which is not. You both inherited 
this trait from your father.’’ 

But, Fredrica,” interposed Herr Stark, your 
theory fails, in some instances, in regard to Phillis. 
She has become infatuated with an elderly lady whom 
she meets on the strand, an invalid, and without the 
least claim to beauty.” 

The moment Herr Stark made the remark he felt 
that it was an error ; the child was listening attent- 
ively, and her bright face clouded instantly at this 
opinion of her friend. She was upon the point of 
speaking, but thinking better of it, she turned and 
left the room. 


ERNA STARK. 


17 


That is owing to her kind sympathetic nature, my 
dear Ludwig,’^ said Fredrica. The lady like her- 
self is delicate ; were it not for that, she would turn 
her back upon ugliness in any form. Having been 
ailing from childhood makes her different from 
healthy children.^^ 

^^And it is that which has also made her capricious 
and willful,^^ remarked Herr Stark. 

^^How can you say that of her, papa?^^ said 
Fredrica, deprecatingly. 

Listen, and you will hear for yourself,’^ said he. 

I will not go to bed so early ; I will not, and you 
shall not make me,’^ came the voice of Phillis from 
the adjoining room, raised to a fretful cry. I wish 
to stay up with sister Erna.’^ 

“ Am I not right ? continued Herr Stark, glanc- 
ing at the others, an amused yet rather annoyed 
expression upon his fine face. 

It was nothing new for Phillis to refuse to go to bed 
at that hour ; in fact, it was a foregone conclusion that 
the contest would come on as regularly as the evening. 
It was the only one in which Phillis did not come off 
victorious. The physician had insisted that she should 
be in bed by eight o’clock, early sleep being abso- 
lutely necessary to one so delicate as she. 

B 


18 


ERNA STARK. 


What is the matter, Hortense?^^ said Fredrica, 
steppiag to the door. You know I always require 
you to be gentle with Phillis, and to persuade instead 
of vexing her.” 

The young French girl dreaded the hour of the 
day, because Frau Fredrica always appeared, in man- 
ner, to reproach her for the want of immediate 
acquiescence on the part of Phillis, and when flatter- 
ing persuasions were without avail, it always ended 
by Phillis being inveigled to her couch by the 
promise of sweetmeats or fruit. 

One of the stipulations made by Fredrica in 
selecting a governess and companion for Phillis 
was that she should possess beauty; not only be- 
cause she herself loved to have beautiful objects about 
her, but because she well knew that one who was void 
of that attribute would have no influence over Phillis. 

On this particular evening the little girl refused to 
go to bed unless Erna accompanied her to her room, 
and told her a story before she dropped asleep, both 
of which requests were complied with by Erna, while 
Hortense, as her share of the contract, supplied two 
candied cherries. 

You will see, my dear Erna,” said Fredrica, as 
the young lady returned to the parlor, that our little 


ERNA STARK. 


19 


Phillis is easily governed by kindness ; but opposition 
she cannot and will not brook. She takes a light 
supper early in the evening, and I have French 
candied fruit always in reserve to tempt her into 
complinance, when I see she has a difficulty in over- 
coming a natural inclination to remain up with us. 
Other sweetmeats would be injurious to her, but 
these, being made of healthful materials, are perfectly 
innocent. It is one of my maxims that children 
should not be vexed. They are not by nature evil ; 
of that I am convinced. Therefore if not thwarted on 
every hand, they will be all that one can desire. I 
am not one of those who believe in the miserable 
doctrine of original sin.’’ 

You are all right, Fredrica, until you begin to 
philosophize ; then you confound precepts in a rather 
unique way,” said Herr Stark, as he in an airy and 
gallant way kissed the hand of his beautiful wife. 

Seeing the subject was not an agreeable one to her 
father, Erna sought to give it another direction. 

^^How much that Cupid looks like our dear 
Phillis!” remarked she, quietly glancing toward a 
statuette upon a pedestal near. 

^^The resemblance strikes you, does it?” cried 
Fredrica, in a tone of delight. 


20 


ERLA STARK. 


“ Was it not modelled from Phillis ? 

No, but I am not surprised that you think so. 
Dr. Fortescue saw it in an art store in Berlin, and 
was so struck by the resemblance that he bought it 
and presented it to Phillis on her last birthday. 

The resemblance is wonderful in all except the 
eyes. The expression in those of Cupid are childlike, 
and those of Phillis ’’ 

Speak out, Erna,^^ said Frau Fredrica, anxiously, 
noticing that she appeared at a loss for a word ; the 
eyes of Phillis sometimes make one fear that we will 
not have her long with us.’^ 

The beautiful eyes of the mother filled with tears 
and her voice trembled ; and Erna saw that the con- 
versation must again be changed, so she asked some 
questions in regard to Dr. Fortescue. 

He is really a wonderful man, and a great acquisi- 
tion to the society here,^^ replied her stepmother. 

His name is Stark, and he is a distant relative of 
my father and of yours ; and we have in some way 
gotten into the habit of calling him by his first name. 
He is a native of France, but his parents having been 
Germans he came here, though he has spent most of 
his life there.^^ 

It is seldom, indeed, that one finds a young man 


ERJSTA STARK. 


21 


SO talented/’ remarked Herr Stark. His thorough 
education has been improved by travel and association 
with the best society.” 

That is the first time I have heard you say so 
much in his favor/’ said Frau Fredrica, with a 
gratified smile. 

Yes, and I must add to what I have said, that I 
have not a particle of confidence in him.” 

It is a pity to prejudice Erna against him, before 
she has an opportunity of judging for herself,” said 
Fredrica, deprecatingly. 

She will judge for herself,” replied Herr Stark, 
and my opinion will only be confirmed.” 

I am getting quite curious to see him,” smiled 
Erna ; a man with such a contradictory nature must 
surely be an enigma to most people.” 

“Your curiosity can not be gratified for a time,” 
replied Frau Fredrica, “ for Dr. Fortescue is traveling 
in Italy. So popular is he here, and so indispensable 
in all merry-makings, that festivals of all kinds are 
being postponed until he returns ; so you came home 
at a rather dull time.” 

At that moment the parents were notified that 
supper was served, and they went to the dining room 
wRere Erna was almost dazzled with the brilliancy of 


22 


ERNA STARK. 


the appointments of the board, and the rare quality 
of the viands. 

The appearance of all was rich in the extreme ; and 
Erna could see the trace of her stepmother’s exquisite 
taste in all the details of the elegant room. 

Erna had before given a cordial greeting to all 
the servants who had presented themselves, some 
of them having been in her grandfather’s service, 
and who now waited upon her with silent de- 
light. 

She had, very soon after her arrival, inquired for 
old Anna, who lived in a room in the back building 
of the dwelling, and had been her nurse, and her 
father’s before her ; but an unmistakable shadow 
which her question called to the fair face of her step- 
mother caused her to refrain from further inquiry, 
resolving to wait for the developments of time. 

Thus the meal progressed in cheerful chat, — inci- 
dents in the childhood of Erna forming the chief 
theme; the freaks of the aged house-dog created 
merriment, and the other household pets came in for 
their share of comment. Even the trees which shaded 
the garden had a place in Erna’s memory, and she 
was glad to hear that they had never been disturbed, 
but flourished in their old-time beauty. 


ERNA STARK. 


23 


As soon as supper was finished, Erna retired to her 
room, somewhat wearied from her journey, and longing 
to be alone that she might think over the incidents 
of the day, to which she had looked forward for 
many years. 


CHAPTER II. 


THEN AND NOW. 

A fter long years in a Swiss school, it was a great 
delight to Erna to be at her home, which looked 
very elegant and luxurious after the severe simplicity 
of the pension. She cast a satisfied glance about the 
beautiful room, which her stepmother had taken great 
delight in rendering attractive, yet a sad smile crossed 
her lips as old memories pressed upon her. She had 
heard much of the amiability of her father^s second 
wife, yet the reception accorded her surpassed her 
expectations. 

When she left home, she was too young to realize the 
comforts and luxuries she was leaving, having been 
accustomed to them all her life; and her school-days 
in the Geneva pension had many attractions and 
pleasures. 

During the last two years she had not been under 
the strict rules which were necessary for less advanced 
pupils. So tlie time was indeed enjoyed ; the pleasures 

of anticipation being no small })art of the enjoyment. 
24 


ERNA STARK. 


25 


Fredrica’s wishes had been carried out — that Erna 
should remain at school until old enough to go into 
society, and be competent to take care of herself ; for 
she dreaded responsibility. This request was due to 
the knowledge of Erna, which Fredrica had obtained 
from acquaintances of the family. She had gathered 
that Erna was a very earnest and thoughtful girl for 
one of her years, would have opinions of her own, 
and, as daughter of the house, w'ould endeavor to 
maintain them. Any objections to her opinions, 
Fredrica reasoned, would lead to dissension; and the 
relatives and servants would take the part of Erna, 
and discomfort would reign where Fredrica wished 
all to be serene. 

You see, dear Ludwig,’^ said she, a few days alter 
the marriage, I do not wish our early married life 
disturbed by governesses. We live in such beautiful 
peace and harmony, that it is a pity to call in an 
element that would mar it ; yet it would be impossi- 
ble to do without a governess for Erna if she remains 
at home. So I think it would be far better to send 
her to a good school. 

It she were here, every ari-angement I would 
make, every suggestion I would offer, would awaken 
the dissatisfaction of the old servants; they would 


26 


ERNA STARK. 


talk in the presence of the child, and as a result would 
influence her against me. I have always been 
accustomed to doing as suited me, and am quite 
willing to allow Erna her rights when she is old 
enough to know what her rights are. We cannot do 
without servants, but we can do without a governess. 
Let Erna go to the excellent pension in Geneva until 
old enough to enter society, then bring her home, and 
I promise you we will live together in perfect har- 
mony and contentment.^^ 

To part with his little daughter was a great trial 
to Herr Stark, but he could see nothing better than 
to agree with the plan of Fredrica, and he moreover 
knew that the course of instruction in the pension 
could not be surpassed. Erna therefore returned to 
her father’s house, not only well instructed in the 
solid branches, but well trained in music and painting 
and other accomplishments. 

The religious training in the pension was, how^ever, 
such as Fredrica had received, and could only be 
classed under the head of materialism. 

But what satisfied the reason of Fredrica could not 
satisfy Erna ; she longed for something more than 
this world could offer — a firmer foundation upon which 
to rest. She treasured the recollection of her own 


EENA STARK. 


27 


pious mother, with whom she had knelt at the bedside, 
and prayed for the blessing of the Heavenly Father 
and his protection during the night. But it was a mere 
recollection, so far back in the past that it was almost 
like a dream. In her heart was a secret altar to the 
unknown God,’^ and Erna had not been placed under 
influences that would lift the veil and enable her to 
see him in all his beauty. 

The first evening of her return, however, was given 
up to the delight of being at home, and her heart was 
filled with gratitude to the beautiful woman who had 
made her so welcome. Was she really back in this 
luxurious home? Was she to be among the fortunate 
ones of earth to whom all things contributed their 
pleasures? Were her parents as happy as she hoped 
they were ? To outward appearances they were so, yet 
her heart was stirred with the thought that her father 
was more changed than his years warranted ? Was 
it only in her imagination, or did there really rest 
upon his countenance a look of depression, as though 
his heart were heavy with some secret sorrow? 

She leaned back in the comfortable chair by the 
window, and tried to think or imagine the cause of her 
sadness. 

Her stepmother had been compared to the sun, in 


28 


ERNA STARK. 


giving brightness to the lives of every one about her. 
Erna thought of all she had heard concerning her 
amiability, her cheerfulness, her kind nature. Her 
father had appeared to appreciate his wife’s beauty 
and light-heartedness more than any one ; how then 
could it be that his melancholy could in any way be 
attributed to her ? 

Erna knew very little of her stepmother except 
that she was the only daughter of a wealthy merchant 
in one of the inland towns of Germany ; that her 
mother had died when she was an infant and that an 
aunt, incompetent to manage, took charge of his 
home. 

If the large retinue of servants were allowed to do 
as they chose, how much more freedom was allowed 
the daughter of the house ? In time the father re- 
mained later and later in his counting room, and when 
he had guests, preferred taking them to a hotel, in- 
stead of his ill-ordered dwelling. 

So it was that Eredrica knew but little of her 
father. He was a sad, morose man, and although 
she knew that he provided her with all the comforts 
by which she was surrounded, she feared him more 
than she loved him, and kept as much as possible out 
of his society. This state of affairs changed but 


EBNA STARK. 


29 


slightly as she grew older, although her father had 
great pride in his beautiful daughter. 

Fredrica had a naturally fine mind, but her educa- 
tion would have been extremely meagre had it not 
been for a cousin of her father, who had been a noted 
professor in a college, and, having come to the city, 
took great interest in the beautiful girl. She learned 
rapidly, and her vanity was fostered by the sincere 
praises of her teacher. 

Many noble attributes, however, remained unde- 
veloped by this course of education : her intellect was 
cultivated at the expense of her heart. 

The professor had made it a subject for boasting 
that he possessed no religion. He considered it an 
evidence of strength of character to be superior to 
what he termed such weakness — a pure and simple 
faith in the risen Saviour being something which he 
considered only for the uncultured and credulous ; and 
he imbued Fredrica with his doctrines. 

Her mother had been an intelligent and cultured 
Christian lady, and had looked forward to the time 
when her daughter would be led to the foot of the 
cross to be saved by the washing of regeneration and 
renewing of the Holy Spirit ; but now when the time 
had come when she might be converted and under- 


30 


ERNA STARK. 


standingly receive baptism the emblem of that 
regeneration, her head was filled with the world 
and its vanities to the exclusion of that which was 
above price. Nothing was sown in her fertile mind to 
bring forth a harvest of faith and good works. 
Fredrica, like the brilliant butterfly, lived only for 
the present. 

Having no one but the inefficient aunt to guide her, 
she always had her own way ; therefore as the time 
came when she considered her school-days over, she 
refused to study any longer, and was determined to 
enter society, in which she was immediately the ad- 
mired of all admirers. 

With wealth, beauty, accomplishments and amia- 
bility, she had, as may be supposed, many suitors ; 
but whom among them all would she consider worthy, 
and for whom would she give up her independence ? 

She enjoyed this congenial life but a very short 
time, for there came a great change. The apparently 
solid house of Stark & Co. failed — became com- 
pletely bankrupt; her father survived the trouble 
but a few short months, and Fredrica was thrown 
upon the cold charity of the world. 

During the first weeks of her bereavement, she 
scarcely knew which way to turn. She had no desire 


ERNA STARK. 


31 


to become a governess, and there was nothing else she 
could do ; so she resolved to mend her fortunes by mar- 
rying a wealthy man, this hope keeping her supported 
during the dark days following her father’s death. 

She found, as thousands had done before her and 
thousands will do after her, that the friends who 
gathered about her in the time of prosperity, fled 
when likely to be called upon for assistance in her 
time of dependence. Where had her w^orshipers 
flown ? Where the friends who were guests in her 
once luxurious home ? Where those whom her father 
had benefited in the days of his prosperity ? Gone 
like the chaff before the wind. 

The professor would have remained a friend to her, 
but he had gone on a long journey to the East, in the 
furtherance of science, and knew nothing of her change 
of circumstances. 

Fredrica stood alone by the ruins of her fallen 
fortunes, and needed all the philosophy she could 
summon to believe there was a silver lining to the 
dark cloud which hovered over her. 

The first gleam of light which came to her was an 
invitation from the sister of her father, who had 
married a jeweller, and lived in the little harbor- 
town upon the shore of the North Sea. This aunt 


32 


ERNA STARK. 


wrote a kind and cordial invitation to the orphan girl 
to come to them, offering to make up to her the great 
loss she had sustained, so far as it was in her power. 

This opportunity was not at all what Fredrica 
would have wished had she been favored with a 
choice ; but there was no alternative, and making her 
arrangements as speedily as possible she journeyed 
north, and was received with open arms by her aunt. 

The home so kindly offered struck Fredrica at 
first sight with dismay. She had never in her pros- 
perous life come in contact with anything so plain, as 
the little biirgerlich dwelling. The narrow surround- 
ings and petty economies came as a revelation to her, 
and she could not imagine that people could live and 
be happy under such circumstances. 

But Fredrica was not the only one who felt the 
discomfort and inconvenience of the arrangement. 
F or the strange guest in the house to be as one of the 
family, yet unaccustomed to their manner of living, 
rendered the little jeweller and his wife awkward and 
constrained ; they were put out of the way of their 
easy and contented mode of life. 

In her uncle’s house, Fredrica found a species of 
religion ; but one which was almost as far from the 
life-giving principle of true and growing grace, as was 


ERNA STARK. 


33 


the non-belief to which she had been trained by the 
professor. It was all form and ceremony ; never a 
word for Christ was spoken to the young girl under 
their roof, never a prayer that she might be guided in 
the straight and narrow way. All the outward obser- 
vances of their church were attended to, but in the 
home circle the words of faith in a higher power, the 
comforting trust in a risen Saviour were never uttered ; 
and the niece knew no more of the plan of salvation 
when she left them than when she came, having 
always declined attending church, which they did not 
insist upon, well satisfied for that length of time to 
be alone with each other. While residing under this 
roof she became acquainted with Herr Ludwig Stark, 
a distant relative of her father and her aunt; and 
Fredrica was not long in seeing that he was captivated 
by her beauty, which was enhanced by the deep 
mourning she wore for her father. Herr Stark had 
the remembrance of his short and happy married life 
always in mind, and lived for his little daughter 
Erna. He had been accustomed to pass his evenings 
in the home of the jeweller, and found a great attrac- 
tion there in the society of Fredrica. He pitied her 
lonely, orphaned life, and asked her to become his 

wife and mistress of his home. 

c 


34 


EPvNA STARK. 


Although Fredrica was romantic as most girls of 
her age, she was also extremely practical ; and though 
she would have preferred a husband nearer her own 
age, she considered that his great wealth made up 
for that, an unselfish and disinterested love being to 
her impossible. Her life at her uncle’s was so dull 
and distasteful that she was willing to Seize the first 
opportunity to leave it ; and she had the art of making 
herself so agreeable when she had an object in view 
that it could easily have been mistaken for real affec- 
tion. She did not love her suitor as a woman should 
love the one wFose happiness is in her hands, but she 
knew that he could surround her with every comfort 
and luxury, and resolved to make him happy by her 
amiability, and her respectful demeanor toward him. 

She admired his freedom from affectation, and, 
though so wealthy, his power of appearing at ease in 
the contracted rooms of her uncle’s dwelling, and his 
interest in the details of the meagre life of the old 
people, which she knew must seem mean and narrow 
to him. 

Herr Stark had inherited from his godly parents a 
belief in the saving power of the gospel, but he had 
read irreligious books and associated with those who 
had made science take the place of humble faith; and 


ERNA STARK. 


35 


while not entirely an unbeliever, had not made Christ 
a personal Saviour, nor looked to him for strength to 
fight the battle of life and to endure its trials. 

When he married Fredrica he was just at a stage in 
his spiritual experience when he could be biased either 
way, and in the choice of a companion for life the 
influence was against religion. 

Fredrica became his wife and a new element came 
into the ancestral home of Herr Stark, and he could 
not but be reminded of the words of Heine — Beau- 
tiful women without religion are like flowers without 
perfume. They resemble cold, sober tulips, which 
look upon us from their china vases, as though they 
were of porcelain; and if they could speak, they 
would explain to us how naturally they grow from a 
bulb; and how so far as perfume is concerned, a 
rational flower has no need of it whatever.’’ 

Erna, in the seclusion of her own pretty room, 
thought of the changes in the ancestral home, so changed 
within and without that one could scarcely recognize 
it as the same she had left seven years before. She 
gave due credit to her stepmother’s unerring taste, yet 
could not restrain a feeling of longing for her old 
home as she had known it in childhood. 

It was not the home-coming of which she had 


36 


ERNA STARK. 


thought and dreamed for years ; it did not seem like 
a loved daughter’s return to the haunts of a happy 
childhood ; it was more like that of a guest invited to 
be at home in splendor to which she had never been 
accustomed, and in an atmosphere in which she felt 
strange and out of place. Erna felt more homesick 
than she had ever felt in the pension, and could have 
wept bitter tears at the change of the old place and in 
her father. 

Tliere was nothing of which she could complain in 
the reception given her; she was as cordially wel- 
comed as daughter of the house as she could have 
w'ished. She saw that her young stepmother was a 
light-hearted creature, who looked upon life as a long 
holiday, and Erna felt that it was not her place to say 
or do aught to make it otherwise to her. Her wish had 
always been to be happy as possible, and to do all 
in her power to make others so, and she resolved to 
adhere to that course of action. She would fill her 
appointed place in the household to the satisfaction of 
all, so far as it lay in her power ; and from present 
prospects it did not appear to be a difficult thing to 
do. 

Erna paused in her reflections and glanced around 
the beautiful room which had always been hers. 


ERNA STARK. 


37 


What a bower of beauty her stepmother had made it ! 
What exquisite taste she had evinced in all its appoint- 
ments ! She saw many of her old favorites, but in 
such different circumstances that she at first scarcely 
recognized them. There was the portrait of her loved 
mother which had always hung in the large parlor 
below, now over the sofa in her room, its massive 
antique frame draped with an elegant embroidered 
scarf, which, while rich and artistic, robbed the dear 
face of its familiar look. In an elegant bookcase, 
with plate glass doors, were the loved books of her 
childhood, and upon the little old-time mahogany 
table upon which she and her mother had partaken of 
many little feasts was spread a gayly silver-fringed 
cover. 

Was her stepmother a sorceress that she could so 
accurately divine Erna’s tastes in art? Statuettes 
which she had admired smiled at her in unexpected 
niches in the large apartment ; copies of rare paintings 
looked down upon her from unfamiliar walls, and the 
music upon the open cabinet piano was that which 
she had known and loved in the Swiss pension. 

I ought to be happy here, and I will be,^^ thought 
she, her tour of her apartment being ended and her 
place by the window resumed. 


38 


ERNA STARK. 


She attributed it all to kindness that Fredrica had 
made her room so beautiful, and was particularly grate- 
ful that her mother’s picture had been placed where 
she could see it at all times ; the sweet face looking 
down in benediction upon her, comforting her more 
than anything besides upon the broad earth could 
have done. 

Notwithstanding her joy in having it, she grieved 
for the wreath of faded flowers which she and her 
father had gathered and placed upon it the evening 
before she left for Switzerland, but would not dampen 
her stepmother’s pleasure by alluding to it, and tried 
to forget that it was ever there. 

She called to mind old Anna, who had been her 
comfort and support when her mother was taken, who 
had told her that the dear Saviour smiled upon her 
when she was good and was grieved when she was 
naughty and disobedient; and that perhaps her 
mother who watched over her was also grieved when 
she was not making the effort to do right. 

With all these reflections that thronged her mind, 
the thought of her father’s sad and preoccupied 
manner recurred again and again, and she wondered 
who could be the one to tell her the cause — Old 
Anna ; her childhood’s nurse, and that of her father 


EKNA STARK. 


39 


before her? Erna glanced at her watch, yes, it was too 
late to seek the old woman in her little home back of 
the main building. She was most likely in bed, and 
a visit from Erna at that hour would disturb her, 
and perhaps cause a sleepless night. But in the 
morning she would visit her and hoped — oh so 
earnestly — that she would find no changes there. 

She longed to see the high post bedstead with its 
hangings of checked blue and white liomespun linen, 
the soft bed with its white drapery, the old high 
back arm chair covered with the same blue and white 
as the curtains, the old claw-foot table inlaid with 
Dutch tiles, representing the history of Joseph and 
his brethren, which Anna had often explained to her. 
She wished to see the delf ware, and the cuckoo-clock, 
in its wonted place upon the mantel shelf, where she 
in childhood had w'atched the cuckoo fly out and nod 
to her while proclaiming in silvery tones the hour ; 
yes, she hoped to see it all in the morning, and could 
scarcely endure the delay. She knew that with the 
dear old Anna in her little home, she would feel that 
her childhood had not all been a vanished dream. 

Erna tapped a bell by her side and her maid came 
to help prepare her for rest, then retired to her own 
cabinet adjoining. 


40 


ERNA STARK. 


No prayer arose from Eima upon this, the evening 
of her return to her father’s house after seven years of 
absence ; but in the home of old Anna, prayers for the 
daughters of the house and for all under its roof 
were ascending from a faithful heart, and God’s 
blessing particularly craved for her who was mother- 
less, and had returned that day to the home of her 
childhood. 

Anna had not gone to rest as Erna supposed ; in- 
stead, her lamp burned dimly upon the little claw- 
footed table, and beside it was the old Bible in which 
she had been reading, while beside the blue covered 
chair knelt Anna. 

It was not this evening alone that she had prayed 
for her beloved Erna, but every evening since her 
birth had her prayers been offered for the dear foster 
child, in obedience to the request of the fair young 
mother, who with her last breath had prayed : Dear 

Saviour, abandon not my child, watch over her, pro- 
tect her, be with her through joy and sorrow ; let her 
be thine, and thine only for time and for eternity.” 


CHAPTER III. 


A MORNING WALK. 

rpHE next morning came a knock upon Annans door, 
and to the invitation to come in appeared Erna, 
robed in a neat morning toilette. 

Anna was just about to partake of her breakfast 
and her coffee in a bright little pot, two little dishes 
of brown and white bread and a small pot of butter 
were upon the board — the very table which had been 
Erna’s delight in childhood. 

Anna had heard from the servants of the arrival of 
the young Fraulein, but could not realize that this 
elegant, stately young lady was the little girl from 
whom she had parted so sorrowfully seven years 
before. She could not believe that it was her Erna, 
her dear little Erna, who greeted her so lovingly ; so 
she courtesied in embarrassment, with a somewhat be- 
wildered look, while Erna on her part thought that 
Anna was perhaps piqued that she had not visited her 
the evening before, instead of putting it off until 

morning. At that moment the door of the clock 

41 


42 


ERNA STARK. 


flew open, and the cuckoo hopped out and proclaimed 
hour of eight, to the great delight of Erna, who in 
the speedy glance she had cast about the room found 
nothing unchanged, except Anna herself, who was 
somewhat more bent and wrinkled. 

Anna, dear Anna, are you not glad to see me ? 
Do you forget the old times when you grieved if I 
was from you but a single day, and how you kissed 
and petted me when I returned ? 

So chattered Erna that Anna might have time to 
recover herself, which she did after a time, although 
she could not summon courage to address the elegant 
young lady as thou,’^ the familiar term of endear- 
ment in childhood. 

No, gracious lady,’^ said she at length, I have 
not forgotten my Erna, but I do not see her in this 
foreign princess who comes into my poor little room. 
How can I believe it is my little one ! And yet it 
must be Erna, for her mother was an angel of beauty 
and goodness, and her father is yet a very handsome 
man. Come, my little heart, and take my kiss of 
welcome, if you will receive it from an old nurse. I 
cannot take you in my old arms as I once did, that 
time is forever past, but my heart rejoices to see you.” 

Erna bowed her stately head to receive the kiss. 


ERNA STARK. 


43 


and in return pressed one upon the wrinked cheek of 
Anna. 

May God bless your home-coming my precious 
one, and may it prove a blessing to this house,” said 
the old nurse with deep emotion. 

Erna sank into the blue-and-white covered arm 
chair, and let her eyes wander about the room which 
seemed much smaller than when she was a child but 
was otherwise unchanged. 

Her attention was attracted to the Sabbath repose and 
serenity of the little place, and she noticed that Anna’s 
best clothing and bonnet lay upon the bed, recalling 
to her mind that it was Sunday morning, which, in 
the excitement of her home-coming, had been almost 
overlooked. 

Erna was somewhat confused that she had so 
nearly forgotten it; remembering how she had re- 
joiced in her childhood’s days, when she had gone to 
the church services with her dear parents, and with 
Anna. But no inducement would have been sufficient 
to cause her to commence a conversation upon the 
subject, knowing the reverence with which the inno- 
cent and deeply spiritually minded woman observed 
the day. 

That coffee cup with the green wreath around it 


44 


ERNA STARK. 


is the one 1 gave you when we parted. Is it not 
Anna ? 

Certainly it is, dear one, and I hope to drink out 
of it as long as the good Master allows me to live. 
Perhaps you will have a cup of coffee with me. Herr 
Stark and the gracious lady will not take breakfast 
for at least an hour. You used to like my coffee, and 
I have made more than usual this morning, for my 
grandson, Adolph, will come to go with me to church, 
and he enjoy es a cup of grandmother’s coffee.” 

Erna signified her willingness, and Anna went to 
the corner cupboard, and took out an old-time delft 
cup and saucer which had always been the admiration 
of Erna, and after carefully rinsing them, poured out a 
cup of coffee for each, from the old-fashioned little 
coffee pot. Together they enjoyed the good bread and 
fresh butter, very welcome to the young lady who, 
owing to her morning walk, had really an excellent 
appetite. 

Before calling upon Anna, she had taken a survey 
of the grounds ; had strolled through the lawn and 
garden down to the sea, everywhere seeing traces of 
Fredrica’s hand. The lawn was gay with roses and 
other choice flowers, and statuettes met her at every 
turn. The garden was laid out in geometrical figures 


ERNA STARK. 


45 


and bordered with box, and graveled walks led 
through it to the sea. 

Erna spoke of her walk and of the change which 
met her on every side. 

Yes,^^ replied old Anna, with a sigh, nothing is 
as it once was.^^ 

^^Only yourself, dear good Anna,^^ replied the 
young girl, affectionately ; tell me all about your 
grandchildren, and especially Adolph who was so stu- 
dious.’^ 

‘^Yes, and studious he remained, and is now a 
school teacher. Oh, he is such a good boy, the pride of 
my old age ; pious he is, like his blessed father.” 

^^And Mina — said Erna, I remember she always 
said she would be my little maid, and I was so sur- 
prised when she came in to see me to find a great tall 
girl. I could not at first believe it was the little Mina 
I had once known.” 

Oh, yes, she has been several years at service at 
Pastor Muller’s. She has plenty of work there, but 
work is good for young people like her ; it keeps them 
out of mischief. Idleness is the mother of evil.” 

There was a touch of embarrassment in Anna’s tone 
when she said this which did not escape the notice of 
Erna, but she made no comment. 


46 


ERNA STARK. 


And August; where is he?’^ she continued. 

‘^He is with a wood-carver, a godly man who is 
instructing him in the trade.” 

Then you are never lonely here,” commented the 
young girl. 

“No, when my son Fritz died, and his wife in a 
little while after, I wondered how in the world I 
should ever be able to take care of the poor little ones 
they had left behind, with no one to see to them ex- 
cept a helpless old woman. I wondered how I could 
raise them, and do justice to the poor orphans. But 
God was good ; it never proved a burden to me too 
heavy to be borne. They grew up before I was aware 
of it, and were always a comfort and a help. My 
heart has grown still and resigned when I think of my 
son, and my daughter-in-law and their little Ida, 
knowing that they are safe in heaven with the Lord, 
above and beyond all the sorrows and trials of earth. 
They served their God faithfully while here, and he 
does not forget his children, but leads them into green 
pastures and beside the still waters.” 

Erna said nothing; she could not enter into the 
feelings of the old nurse. She considered that Anna’s 
faith belonged to a past day and generation, and was 
not at all adapted to the nineteenth century, nor to the 


ERNA STARK. 


47 


cultivated intellects among whom she had place. At 
the same time she could but acknowledge that it was 
a beautiful belief. She looked at the happy countenance 
of old Anna, rejoicing in the certainty of meeting 
her loved ones again, and knowing in whom she 
trusted. 

About yourself, Anna, how has it been with 
you in all this time? Have you been well in body 
and mind, as you are at the present time ? ” 

There are days which suit me not ; for it is not a 
light thing to feel one’s strength leaving, and to see 
others who are younger, whom we love, suffer the 
afflictions of life. We lose our interest in the few 
pleasures left us upon earth, and turn our minds to 
the home above. God has been gracious to me ; I 
live with as few cares as most people, and have joy in 
my dear grandchildren.” 

Yes, they must be a great pleasure to you, being 
so good and faithful.” 

My work on earth is done, and I will go will- 
ingly to my Father’s house, when he calls me. And 
his will be done,” continued she, as though speaking 
to herself. 

But,” said Erna, who continued the conversation 
in spite of her distaste for the subject, if all is going 


48 


ERNA STARK. 


on so well upon earth, why are you so willing to leave 
it?^^ 

Because it will be much better for me above. I 
shall see my Saviour, and shall be with my husband 
and children, and all who have gone before.’’ 

How can you be so sure of that ? ” 

How can I be so sure of it ? ” questioned the old 
nurse, gazing with surprise into the face of the young 
girl : because it stands written there.” And she 

nodded to the Bible lying on the table.” 

Ho you really believe all that is in that book ? ” 

If I did not believe all, I could believe nothing ; 
and would be so miserable that I would wish I had 
never been born.” 

Yes, when a child I also loved all the beautiful 
stories that you told me out of it. Yes, I loved to 
listen to them.” 

Erna had not understood that her words would be 
taken so literally, and was unprepared for the look 
of distress upon the pale face of her old nurse. 

And now Erna, — and now how stands it with 
you ? ” 

Erna was silent, — she could not repay the devotion 
of her faithful old friend with words that would stab 
like a knife. But Anna did not wait long for a reply. 


EENA STAEK. 


49 


I hoped, oh, how I hoped that you who were so 
far away from the false teaching which has come into 
this house, might have a faith so firmly established 
ere you came under its influence, that nothing could 
shake it. That was my comfort when I reflected 
upon these things. It is anguish enough to know 
that your father has forgotten the God which his 
fathers served ; and now that you should, you poor 
misguided child.” And bowing her head Anna wept 
bitterly. 

^^Anna, dear Anna, don’t distress yourself about 
me,” said the young girl, passing her soft white hand 
tenderly on the cheek of the old nurse. When I am 
as old as you, and get weary of life, no doubt I will 
return to the faith of my childhood ; but now I am 
young and have no time for such things. Please take 
the coffee pot and other things from the table that 
I may see the pictures of Joseph and his brethren 
which, sleeping or waking, have so often come to my 
mind when far away.” 

Anna obeyed, a prayer ascending to her Father for 
the young girl whom she so loved. 

Oh, how different, how distorted these figures look 
which once were so beautiful to me ! ” said Erna, gaz- 
ing upon them. The faces of the Egyptians remind 

D 


50 


ERNA STARK. 


me of gnomes at fountains, and the one who is 
bargaining for Joseph has a gun in his hand ; just 
think, a gun, four thousand years ago.^^ And tears of 
mirth filled the beautiful dark eyes of the young girl. 

It was a better time in your life, my child, when 
you wept for the misfortunes of poor Joseph, repre- 
sented upon these tiles, than now when you are 
laughing at them,’^ said Anna, with tears of real dis- 
tress causing her voice to tremble. 

Perhaps you are right,’^ said the young girl, 
trying to recover herself."^ You must really excuse 
me, dear Anna, for I know how you reverence the 
tiles ; but I have seen so many fine paintings since I 
left here, that you cannot imagine how grotesque these 
appear to me.^^ 

The old nurse said nothing, but that she was pained 
Eriia could not fail to see. 

But I am keeping you from church, or at least 
from getting ready for it. I see your dress on the 
bed in readiness ; certainly, papa and mamma are 
ready for breakfast by this time.’^ 

Are you not going to church ? ” said Anna, 
earnestly. 

I ? ” replied the young girl, in embarrassment. 
“ You certainly cannot expect me to go to-day.^' 


ERNA STARK. 


51 


And why not ? ’’ questioned the old nurse ; cer- 
tainly you will spend an hour or two in God^s house 
the first day of your home-coming, and thank him 
for his great mercy and loving-kindness in allowing 
you to return after so long an absence, sound in body 
and mind.’’ 

Now, Anna, I think it real cruel in you to wish 
me to bury myself in a mouldy old church this 
beautiful spring day, to listen to a dry tedious sermon. 
Besides, I have so much to do ! You don’t know 
how much, Anna,” — noticing the sad face of the old 
woman. I have to unpack all my trunks, and see 
that everything is put in its place. My room is so 
beautiful that I wish to dispose of all I brought to 
the best advantage, and keep it looking as neat as it is 
now. Mamma was very kind to do so much to give 
me pleasure, and it is as little as I can do to show 
that I appreciate it by not running away from it 
the very first day. I expect to be very happy in my 
beautiful room.” 

Happy ! ” echoed old Anna, shaking her head 
sadly; ‘^ask your father if he is happy with his 
beautiful home.” 

This was the very turn which Erna was wishing 
the conversation to take, for she longed to know 


62 


EPwNA STAEK. 


Anna’s opinion without letting her suspect that she 
felt any doubt of his happiness. 

Why should he not be happy, Anna ; has he not 
everything to make him so ? ” 

‘^Yes; he is rich, has a beautiful wife, a loving 
little daughter, and now his loved elder daughter is 
with him after a long separation. He has a home 
with every comfort, and faithful servants ; is loved 
and esteemed by his friends and neighbors, yet does 
he appear happy, Erna ? Is it possible to be happy 
without God? And the young frau : is she happy? 
She has made an idol of her little daughter ; she wor- 
ships her, and the thought of her failing health robs 
the mother of sleep.” 

Is Phillis not well ? ” questioned Erna, some- 
wEat anxiously ; are they really worried about her 
health?” 

The child is very delicate, that is certain ; but 
those who trust in God are willing to put their dear 
ones in his care, knowing that he will watch over 
them far more faithfully than the most loving parents 
can do. Of this dear and pitying God the poor young 
frau knows nothing. She feels that she is helpless to 
restore the little one to health. This worries her, and 
she seeks forgetfulness in amusements of every kind ; 


ERXA STAKK. 


53 


but in dance and play the spectre is ever at her side, 
overshadowing all her joy 

^^Oh, Anna, you surely see everything with the 
eyes of age and in the darkest colors ; nothing seems 
to you as it does to one who is young and happy. 
They have not ceased to think of God and take pleasure 
in the Bible ; but they have become more mature and 
intellectual, and do not accept it all, as one does in 
childhood.^^ 

Who showed them what was true and what was 
false ? Who has a right to judge ? ” 

All scientific people.’’ 

That would be sad for us who are not learned. 
No, dear Erna, my dear, dear cliild, your wisdom 
here is not a saving wisdom. God has said in his 
blessed word : ^ Whosoever shall not receive the king- 
dom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein.’ ” 

Well, we will not discuss this question, dear 
Anna ; I do not wish to rob you of your faith, since 
you take so much comfort in it.” 

You could not do it. On the shelf there lies a 
a book which my honored pastor gave me. My eyes 
are dim, and I cannot read it veiy well, but I com- 
forted myself with the thought that you — my dear 
foster child — my loved Erna, would soon be at home, 


54 


ERNA STARK. 


and would read it to me. It is the true history of 
martyrs, who endured the most terrible tortures and 
death rather than give up their faith in the God in 
whom they believed. They remained true to him, 
and are now reaping the reward in his kingdom above. 
It is a terrible history, but one it would be well for 
you to know, that you may see what men have done 
in defense of the faith which you esteem so lightly. 
Our faith is worth nothing if we would not suffer 
death rather than part with it.’^ 

Oh, well, Anna, I will say no more to vex you ; 
and maybe some time I may be as good as you,’^ con- 
tinued she, lightly, as she bade her old nurse good-bye 
and entered the breakfast room just as her parents 
entered by another door. 

Where have you been so early, dear Erna?” 
questioned her stepmother. 

All over the beautiful lawn and garden, admiring 
the exquisite taste you have displayed in arranging 
them. You have been very busy in the seven years 
of my absence, mother mine.’^ 

Fredrica was pleased with the honest praise of her 
work, and Herr Stark looked with approving glance 
at his daughter, whose blooming face gave token ot 
perfect health. 


ERNA STARK. 


55 


Erna noticed that her father looked even more 
faded in the clear light which streamed into the break- 
fast room than by lamplight the evening before. She 
wondered if, after all, old Anna was right ; and if a 
childlike faith in God the Father, and in his written 
w^ord, were conducive to happiness in this world as 
well as in the next ; and whether the loss of it was the 
cause of his gloom. She realized that Anna was hap- 
pier than he, let the cause be what it might. 

The young girl considered these things in her mind 
while listening to the conversation between Herr 
Stark and Fredrica over the events of the day, noticing 
that her stepmother glanced frequently toward the 
door as though expecting some one. 

She soon discovered the cause, for Phillis entered 
accompanied by Hortense. 

‘‘Did my little darling sleep well, Hortense?’’ 
questioned the mother, eagerly. 

“ No, ma’am ; she seemed restless and feverish all 
the early part of the night, but rested better toward 
morning.” 

“ I have no doubt my coming made a little excite- 
ment for her and put her out of her usual way,” said 
Erna, as tlie words of old Anna returned to her 
mind at sight of the pale cheeks and hollow eyes of 


56 


ERNA STARK. 


the little girl whom Hortense was waiting upon at 
table. 

I am so eager for the Baths to open/^ said 
Fredrica ; the doctor gives me every assurance that 
bathing will be of great benefit to Phillis.^ ^ 

Mamma, the strange lady that gave me the beau- 
tiful shells is waiting for the Baths just like me. I 
wish I could bathe with her ; she says she loves to have 
little girls with her.^^ 

No doubt you can, my dear one, and it speaks 
well for your affectionate little heart that you are 
willing to be with one who is an invalid,^^ said her 
mother. 

The lady has indeed a very pleasing manner,’^ 
remarked Herr Stark ; although she is delicate, she 
is willing to amuse little ones. I judge by her dress 
and manner of living that she is in very moderate 
circumstances, and an entire stranger here.’^ 

I wish you had learned her name,^^ said Fredrica, 
the interest which the stranger took in Phillis being 
sufficient passport to her favor. 

^^Her name is Frau Ehlert,’’ said Hortense, re- 
spectfully ; she has come to breathe the sea air, and 
will remain for the Baths. She is very poor, I think, 
and lodges in one of the little houses near the strand.’’ 


ERNA STARK. 


57 


Poor, sick, and a stranger : three sad things for 
one person to endure,’^ said Fredrica, reflectingly. 

Suppose we go to see her, Phillis ; perhaps we may 
be of help to her in some way.^^ 

Oh, yes, mamma ; do let us go ! Slie is so kind 
and tells me such beautiful stories that the time flies 
quickly when I am with her. Do, do let us go, 
mamma.’^ 

The father saw the animated face of his child, and 
was upon the point of telling Fredrica the nature of 
the stories which the lady told Phillis, well knowing 
that if she knew she would not go near her ; but a 
glance at the pleading face of his child restrained him, 
and he remained silent. 

Phillis seldom came in contact with strangers, owing 
to the care with which she had always been guarded, 
and Fredrica looked upon the intimacy as merely an 
interest in the dull life of her child, and was grateful 
for the kindness which prompted it. 

Yes, we will go, little one,’^ said she, kindly, not 
noticing the glances between Herr Stark and Phillis ; 
and the little girl went to him, and laying her hand 
upon his arm, said, Thank you, dear papa ; you are 
so good ! 


CHAPTER IV. 


NEW IMPKESSIONS. 

B efore a large mirror in Eredrica’s boudoir, 
stood Erna one evening vieAving her tall, majestic 
figure, and almost wondering to herself whether that 
brilliant creature reflected there could be the schoolgirl 
so recently in the Geneva pension. A rich white satin 
robe fell in heavy folds to her feet, and a long train 
of the same material added, apparently, to her height. 
The classic beauty of her face was enhanced by a 
coronet of diamonds, and the same jewels glittered in 
a necklace about her throat, and in bracelets upon her 
beautifully moulded arms. 

This room had been selected as a reception room for 
guests who were to take part in a set of tableaux, which 
Frau Eredrica had arranged in honer of Erna’s return 
to her father’s house. Apollo, Terpsichore, and many 
other characters of heathen mythology were to figure 
that evening, as well as some of modern times ; the 
pauses to be filled in by music of Mozart, Wagner 
and Beethoven, as none better understood the art of 

giving guests a delightful evening than Eredrica. 

63 



Ema Stark* 


Page 58. 



r I * 



r 











ft 




.>, 1-0 


- r 






I 






ERNA STARK. 


59 


lu the fortnight since Erna’s return many calls had 
been received. The family had a large circle of 
acquaintances and was very popular ; their home was 
charming and Fredrica very hospitable. Erna laugh- 
ingly compared the succession of visits to the leaves 
of a photograph album, turned over. 

She had looked eagerly forward to her first party, 
and was buoyant over her entrance into the society of 
which her beautiful young stepmother was the ac- 
knowledged leader. 

The evenings were so short, it was arranged that the 
guests should assemble before sunset. The large draw- 
ing room shutters were closed, the heavy curtains ex- 
cluding every ray of the sun, and the room was 
brilliantly lighted, setting off the toilets to the greatest 
advantage. But in the boudoir of Fredrica the after- 
noon sun entered freely through the rose-colored cur- 
tains, and Erna thought she had never imagined a 
more beautiful room. 

After having satisfied herself that her costume was 
perfect in every detail, she took a nearer view of all 
the little elegancies with which her stepmother had 
surrounded herself, then took a book from the table 
and was soon deeply interested in its pages. 

It was Torquato Tasso,’’ and from it was to be 


60 


EENA STAEK. 


taken one of the most beautiful tableaux of the 
evening, one in which she was to have part. With 
deep interest she perused the page, and so absorbed 
did she become that the door opened without 
attracting her attention, and a gentleman, young and 
handsome, dressed in costume and with a wreath of 
laurel upon his head, stood beside her. Erna knew 
at a glance that he was the Tasso for the evening. 

An introduction is scarcely necessary,^^ said Erna, 
extending her hand in welcome. ^^You are Herr 
Doctor Fortescue, and of course, you know by my 
costume that I am the Princess Leonore.^^ 

Fraulein Erna Stark,’^ said he, pressing the small 
white hand, allow me to welcome you home, though 
late in my congratulations.^^ 

Thank you ; I am glad to be at home ; the reality 
far exceeds my expectations. My dear mother cannot 
do enough to make me happy, and I am indeed 
grateful to her.’^ 

Erna could see the admiration with which the 
doctor regarded her. The costume suited her well. 
She had looked forward to this moment with joyful 
anticipations, and the result had been all she had 
hoped for. 

A pause ensued, which Erna hastened to shorten, 


ERKA STARK. 


61 


lest it should become embarrassing : Mamma and I 
were very sorry we were out when you called. We 
had heard of your arrival, and made our walk to the 
beach much shorter than we would have done had we 
not thought you would perhaps call.” 

My visit was more especially to you, gracious 
Friiulein ; I wished to make your acquaintance before 
we met in company.” 

Then I am doubly sorry that we only found your 
card when we returned.” 

The doctor bowed in acknowledgment, and again 
there was silence. 

Erna, in taking her handkerchief from the table, 
allowed the book she had been reading to slip from 
her hand ; it glided smoothly over the satin robe and 
reached the floor. 

Dr. Fortescue took it up, and his eye rested upon 
the title. Torquato Tasso, in the original,” said he, 
in pleased surprise. 

^^Yes,” replied Erna, utilized the time while 
waiting for other guests, to read over the scene in 
which we are to appear. Although there is no speech, 
yet the attitude and expression of the face has much 
to do with the success of such representations. I hope 
they will prove a success for mamma’s sake.” 


62 


ERNA STARK. 


And in order to do my part toward making them 
such/^ said Dr. Fortescue, glancing at the book in his 
hand, I should be indebted if you will give me some 
suggestions in regard to the position I am to assume.^^ 
I shall be glad to assist you in any way,^^ said 
Erna, flattered by the confidential tone he used in 
making the request. 

Dr. Fortescue was an accomplished reader, and 
thanked his lucky destiny which gave him the oppor- 
tunity to display his talent. His voice was deep and 
full, and naturally dramatic : so he made the most out 
of the one page which contained the scene in which he 
was to be the hero. 

Erna listened attentively, and her praise of the 
attitude and expression he assumed was hearty and 
sincere. 

At that moment Fredrica, who was also one of the 
characters in the tableau, came in. Her costume was 
so brilliant that the doctor and Erna put their hands 
before their eyes as though dazzled. 

Excuse me for being blinded,^’ said Fortescue, 
archly ; “ but such magnificence I never imagined.’’ 

^^You are very excusable,” said Fredrica, laugh- 
ingly ; ^4t is the sun through the rose-colored curtains 
that makes my brilliants so dazzling.” 


ERNA STARK. 


63 


“ You look really queenly, mamma,’’ said Erna, 
affectionately. 

Oh, you young people can afford to pay compli- 
ments to old married people who have had their day.” 
and Fredrica smiled, well pleased. “ But I came to tell 
you, my dear, that the guests are arriving, and those 
who are to take part in the tableau are already in the 
dressing room, and will very soon make their appear- 
ance here. As our scene is near the first, I am glad 
we are all ready.” 

The entertainment was opened with an overture 
from Egmont, by the stringed band engaged for the 
occasion, followed by the representation of Egmont 
and Klarchen ; then, after another fine performance by 
the band, came the scene from Torquato Tasso, so 
regal in its magnificence that it had to be repeated 
several times. This was followed by Hermann and 
Dorothea, then Faust and Gretchen, Wertha and 
Lotta, and many others of equal beauty. Altogether 
it was the most brilliant set of tableaux which had 
ever been managed by Fredrica, whose success was 
well known, and who was charmed with the apprecia- 
tion they so well merited. 

Then stag-e and curtains were removed, and other 
amusements took the place of the mimic scenes. All 


64 


ERNA STARK. 


who had taken part in them retained their costumes 
during the evening, except Erna, who being cumbered 
with her train, and laughingly telling them that she 
feared a princess among them would cause a feeling 
of restraint, slipped away to her own room. However, 
she soon returned, robed in soft white muslin, with 
crimson roses in her hair and upon her bosom, and all 
silently agreed that she was equally charming in that 
simple attire. 

It was Erna’s first party, and she entered into the 
gayeties with the greatest pleasure. Dr. Fortescue, 
taking advantage of the opportunity offered him by 
being her partner in the tableau, acted as her cavalier 
all the evening. 

There were many young officers present, for the 
harbor town was a military post, and their gay uni- 
forms added much to the brilliancy of the room. Dr. 
Fortescue wore no uniform, but its absence was not a 
disadvantage to him in the eyes of the fair girls, for he 
was handsome, of commanding presence, and quite con- 
spicuous among the epauleted and gallooned gallants 
who squared their shoulders and marched so proudly 
about the spacious rooms. 

Dr. Fortescue was a comparative stranger in the 
town, but he had letters of introduction which he pre- 


ERNA STARK. 


65 


sented to Herr Stark and other prominent residents 
when he first came among them. His handsome face 
and polished manners had done more for him, so far 
as society was concerned, than his letters, and the pat- 
ronage of the Starks had won him a place in the best 
circles. 

The only drawback with him was a shallow purse • 
and this he resolved to remedy by a rich marriage 
And even before Erna left school or he had seen her, 
he resolved to win her for his wife, if it were possible. 
In this undertaking he looked for the assistance of 
Fredrica. Through her acknowledged respect for him, 
he was upon the pinnacle of popularity. No one 
asked who he was or whence he came, society being 
satisfied to follow where Fredrica led, and really 
wondering how it managed to exist before he came. 

Dr. Fortescue was playing a role not natural to him, 
that of an earnest and sincere man ; but he was willing 
to put this restraint upon himself for the sake of the 
object in view, the winning of Erna. He therefore 
looked upon the usual attentions from other young 
men with jealous eyes, and being an adept at expedients 
made some excuse to cause them to leave her side. 

It had been truly an enjoyable evening, and the 
time to separate was at hand. Dr. Fortescue, in return- 

E 


66 


EKNA STARK. 


iiig to the banqueting room for his handkerchief, 
which he had left there, saw Hortense Moran stand- 
ing by one of the alcoves. Mademoiselle was a beau- 
tiful brunette, and of excellent family, but poor ; and 
Fredrica, with her artistic love of beauty, always saw 
that she was becomingly dressed, as became the com- 
panion of Phillis and a protege of hers. So this even- 
ing Hortense was arrayed in a charming crimson 
gown, which set off her raven hair and colorless com- 
plexion to the best advantage. 

Fredrica was independent in her feelings, and had 
an assured position in society. It was one of her 
theories that a person who was suitable for the con- 
stant society of her child was suitable for that of the 
family and should be treated as one of them. There- 
fore, Mademoiselle was one of the merry company 
that evening and all evenings, and Fredrica would 
have been quick to resent any want of affiliation on the 
part of her guests. 

Dr. Fortescuehad always paid her much attention, 
but that evening every thought had been for Erna, 
and securing his handkerchief he was about to return to 
the drawing-room, when Hortense, pale with anger and 
excitement, intercepted him. 

“You are flirting again. Dr. Fortescue?’’ 


ex- 


ERNA STARK. 


67 


claimed she, bitterly ; do I not see that you have ears 
and eyes only for F raulein Erna ? 

Dear Hortense,’’ exclaimed he, hastily, the gods 
know that it is only pretense. You and you alone oc- 
cupy my thoughts ; and you must know how I long 
for a quiet talk with you instead of this garish scene.^^ 

‘^You fickle creature, you know there is but one 
God ; and he will surely punish you for your false- 
hoods to me,’^ exclaimed she, with tear-dimmed 
eyes. 

Fmu Fredrica had often noticed the coquettish airs 
of Hortense, but never for a moment imagined that 
Dr. Fortescue had ever given her reason for supposing 
that he cared for her any more than for any other 
young lady under her care. 

She had always had it in mind, since her acquaint- 
ance with Dr. Fortescue that Erna would some time 
be his wife ; and she had no patience with the flirtation 
between him and Hortense. She believed that money 
was all that was necessary to secure his success in life. 
Erna w’as an heiress, and the money inherited from 
her mother was at her own disposal. Fredrica was 
one who could not bear a rival in the management of 
her home ; she wished to reign supreme, and could 
not feel that she w^as sole mistress now that a grown 


68 


ERXA STARK. 


daughter of the house was under its roof. And, to 
do her justice, she really believed that the happiness 
of Erna would be secured by a union with Dr, 
Fortescue. She had a fear that Herr Stark would 
raise some objections, but thought that he could be 
won over to her way of thinking. That the doctor 
would flirt with the young French girl was in the 
eyes of Fredrica very reprehensible; and she showed 
her displeasure by calling Hortense, and giving her a 
message that would take her from the room. In a 
short time afterward the guests departed, the light 
was extinguished and the party was a thing of the 
past. 

Erna retired to her room, but not to sleep; her 
thoughts were too busy with the events of the day. 
Into what a fairyland had she been ushered, and what 
a beautiful existence would she enjoy after the dull 
life of a school girl ; Dr. Fortescue being the central 
figure of this new life. 

How melodious was his voice, how gentle his tone 
when addressing her, how distinguished his appear- 
ance in a crowd of young people, all more or less dis- 
tinguished and handsome ! How superior was he to 
all the young men with whom she had become 
acquainted ! And she recalled many words which he 


ERNA STARK. 


69 


had spoken that evening, which betokened an interest 
in her. 

Erna had taken the large chair by the window 
where she had sat the first evening of her return, and 
as on that evening her thoughts were busy with the 
past. She was yet in her party toilette, and her bright 
eyes and unfaded cheek showed that the excitement 
and fatigue of her first evening in society had pro- 
duced no wearying effect upon her. 

She called to mind her beautiful stepmother so 
winning and attractive ; so light-hearted, and appar- 
ently oblivious that there could be such a thing as 
sorrow and trouble in the world. She assuredly was 
happy. 

Her eyes involuntarily sought the portrait of her 
mother, and the sweet, mild countenance gave to her 
thoughts another channel. 

Did her own mother enjoy society in her youth as 
she and Fredrica were doing ? She died so young ! 
Did death end all happiness for her? Would it end 
all the happiness she was just commencing to expe- 
rience? Was death the end of all happiness? Who 
could solve for her this riddle of life ? What was 
the use of laying plans for happiness, when, per- 
haps the next day, the next hour, one would be 


70 


ERNA STARK. 


extinguished like a torch, or disappear like a soap- 
bubble ? 

She shook her head as though she would gladly 
put aside all such thoughts. Why should such reflec- 
tions come to her in this, the happiest hour of her life ? 

Her stepmother, she supposed, never troubled 
herself with such thoughts. She was a practical 
woman and took life as she found it, never given to 
musings over that which would only render her dis- 
satisfied and miserable. Yes, it was better to follow 
her example ; to look upon the present as the only 
thing she could claim, to live for to-day, and to- 
morrow — 

There again was the question which had before con- 
fronted her. Well, sleep would bring forgetfulness, 
and when to-morrow’s sun should awaken her, its 
cheering beams would dispel these sad, perplexing 
visions of the night. And thinking thus, she sought 
her repose. 


CHAPTER V. 


HELP IN NEED. 

l^REDRICA had waited impatiently for the open- 
ing of the Baths, for the physician had given 
her much encouragement as to their beneficial effects 
upon Phillis ; but the season was cold and rainy, and 
it was near the middle of July when the elegant equi- 
page of Herr Stark drew up before the entrance of the 
sanitarium. 

There were many persons gathered in the reception 
room, and they pressed to the windows to see the new 
arrivals and make their comments upon the courtesy 
which the crusty and reserved physician in charge was 
showing them; and they took it for granted that 
Fredrica and her daughter were people of consequence. 

When they entered the reception room followed by 
Hortense, chairs were immediately provided for them, 
while many who had been there a long time were 
standing, watching eagerly for a vacant bathroom, 
and were somewhat envious on account of the distinc- 
tion made. 

In spite of the embarrassment of seeing so many 

71 


72 


ERNA STARK. 


strangers, Phillis immediately singled out her old 
friend Frau Ehlert, who sat pale and silent in a 
secluded corner of the apartment, unnoticed. The 
others, who sat in groups of twos and threes, were 
talking volubly, and to her the stay in the room was 
anything but agreeable. She was glad to see little 
Phillis, and Fredrica noticed how happy they seemed 
to be in each othePs society. 

Mamma, said Phillis, returning, Frau Ehlert 
is pale and almost sick from waiting so long ; won’t 
you please go and speak to her, and maybe you can 
get them to give her a place earlier.” 

I am afraid not, my child. These people are vexed 
enough now that we are to be served before them, but 
we will see what we can do for her after your bath is 
over.” 

In a few minutes a messenger came to notify Frau 
Stark that the bath was ready, and taking Phillis by 
the hand she left the room. 

When they returned, they sought the corner where 
Frau Ehlert was still waiting, and Phillis with great 
pride presented her mother and her friend to each 
other. 

You have been so kind to my little daughter, and 
she has spoken so much of you, that I feel acquainted 


ERNA STARK. 


73 


with you/^ said Frau Stark, pleasantly and am glad 
of tliis opportunity of meeting you. As you see, my 
little girl is very delicate, and has frequent attacks of 
illness. That was the case quite recently, and she 
had to remain in bed several days, her chief trouble 
being that she could not meet you upon the strand.’^ 

At the attention paid to the poor woman by the 
rich and elegant Frau Stark, all eyes were turned 
toward her, but this was of little account to Frau 
Ehlert, in comparison with the pleasure she felt in 
seeing little Phillis. She was cheered by the kind- 
ness of Fredrica, but gave not the least evidence of 
being flattered by the condescension of the great lady, 
while she was as gentle and unembarrassed as usual. 

You will excuse my not rising to speak to you,^^ 
said she. I am very weak, for I have been waiting 
at least two hours for a vacancy, and may perhaps 
have to wait two hours longer.^^ 

Dr. Wagner at that moment appeared again, with 
the intention of escorting Frau Stark to her carriage. 

How is this, doctor ? questioned she, in a quick, 
stern tone ; for, though amiable, she could show resent- 
ment when occasion offered. 

What is it, gracious lady ? said he, bowing ob- 
sequiously. 


74 


ERNA STARK. 


Frau Ehlert has a card for the baths ; why has she 
been kept waiting ? 

Because that is the rule of the place, gracious lady ; 
those who have cards like hers must wait until those 
who have cards for the first-class are served. You 
see how many are here waiting.’* 

But how much longer must she wait ? She has 
been here two hours, and more people are coming all 
the time. What are you thinking of, doctor ? You, 
as a physician, ought to know what I can see at the 
first glance, that Frau Ehlert is the most delicate per- 
son in the room. The long wait in this confused 
place will do her more harm than the bath will do her 
good.” 

I don’t see how it can be helped, madam,” replied 
the doctor, in an injured tone, and somewhat angry. 

Fredrica’s face flushed, and her eyes flashed with 
indignation at his change of manner. She was not 
accustomed to having her wishes slighted. 

Can’t be helped, doctor ! ” said she, coldly. I 
say that it must be helped ; and will see that it is.” 

She took a dozen bathing cards of the first-class 
from her pocket-book, such as, owing to their price, 
were only bought by those who had means, and 
pressed them into the hand of Frau Ehlert. 


ERNA STARK. 


75 


Give me your bath cards, dear Frau Ehlert/^ said 
she, in a different tone from that used with the doctor, 
and you must use mine. Come with me, and I will 
see that you have your bath immediately.’^ 

Frau Ehlert had expected to be at her lodging 
house long before, and had partaken of a very light 
breakfast of bread and coffee, so was faint from 
hunger and weariness. Frau Stark was not slow to 
observe this, and sending a messenger to the nearest 
bakery, had a fresh roll and a glass of new milk 
brought to her. She gladly partook of it, and feeling 
strengthened, rose and followed Frau Stark, who 
could not avoid giving Dr. Wagner a triumphant 
look as she passed him. 

Fredrica’s interest in the friend of Phillis increased 
as she became acquainted with her, and having the 
means of gratifying the benevolent feelings of the 
moment, she was determined to carry out the plan of 
benefiting her as far as money could assist. She was 
grateful to Frau Ehlert for the interest she had taken 
in Phillis, and knew that Herr Stark would be satis- 
fied with whatever she did in the matter. 

The joy of Phillis was great that her mother was 
doing something to help her friend, and her happiness 
caused her to look so much brighter that Fredrica was 


76 


EENA 8TARK. 


charmed that in benefiting the stranger she was also 
benefiting her child. 

I will take you home with me if agreeable to yon/^ 
said she, when they returned to the reception room ; 

you are too weary to walk, and I will send you to 
the cottage this evening, when it is cooler, if you 
desire to go.^^ 

Oh, yes, do come with us,’^ said Phillis, clapping 
her hands in glee. 

Frau Ehlert gladly accepted the invitation; and 
when she reached the large, cool, quiet room to which 
she was conducted, and was kindly invited to lie down 
and rest until dinner was served, she thanked her 
Father in heaven for his great goodness to her, and 
dropped into a peaceful sleep. Phillis was jubilant 
over the thought that her dear old friend was so un- 
expectedly under the roof of her parents. 

You need not go from here,^^ said she, when Frau 
Ehlert, having partaken of dinner, again went to her 
room. I wish you would stay, and go with us every 
day to the Baths ; then they would not make you 
wait so long that you get sick in consequence.’^ 

A new thought came into the mind of Fredrica 
upon hearing this, and as soon as convenient she 
spoke to her husband in regard to it. I am per- 


ERNA STARK. 


77 


fectly willing that you should have her here if you 
wish it/^ replied he, kindly, in response to her request. 

There is the large room in the back building, near 
that of old Anna/^ said Fredrica, reflectively. ^^It 
is cool and pleasant, with sufficient sun to make it 
healthful, and no doubt is far preferable to the little 
stuffy rooms in the fisherman’s cottage where she 
lodges.” 

Yes, she will have many advantages here ; and it 
will not cost her anything to be with us. My wife 
understands the art of making people comfortable, and 
can do her share toward making the poor lady have a 
pleasant time.” 

Thank you for your willingness to agree to my 
plan, and also for the compliment,” laughed Frau 
Stark, as she hastened away to tell Phillis’ friend of 
the arrangement made for her comfort. 

It was not difficult to read in the expressive coun- 
tenance of Frau Ehlert the delight with which she 
welcomed the proposal. A flush of pleasant surprise 
passed over her pale features, and she clasped her hands 
in joyous gratitude, as she thanked Fredrica heartily. 

While Fredrica was talking to her, Herr Stark 
came into the library adjoining in search of a book, 
and found little Phillis seated quietly by the window 


78 


ERNA STARK. 


looking out ; so he took a place beside her, with his 
book. 

He heard his wife leave the room, and then the 
gentle voice of Frau Ehlert, who knew not that she was 
heard except by the One who hears even the feeblest 
cry to him : Father in heaven, thou art gracious and 
merciful ; always mindful of those who put their trust 
in thee ; let thy choicest blessings rest upon this home ; 
return in full measure the compassion they have shown 
to me, a pilgrim and a stranger.’’ 

She is praying,” whispered Phillis, in an awed 
voice ; and both remained perfectly silent. 

“ Where will this end ? ” thought Herr Stark, as 
he listened. Can it be that God has accepted my 
sincere repentance, and has sent her in response to my 
earnest prayers in behalf of my child? Has God 
indeed taken pity on me ? ” 

She prayed for us, papa ; she loves us for being 
good to her,” whispered Phillis, with tears in her 
blue eyes, while Herr Stark wondered, somewhat 
anxiously, what would be the result when Fredrica 
should realize the religious nature of the stranger 
whom she had welcomed under her roof. 

Only Frau Ehlert herself knew how opportune 
this great favor was to her ; and her heart was filled 


ERNA STARK. 


79 


with astonishment and gratitude to God who had put 
it into the hearts of these kind friends to help her. 

She was a widow of a minister who had died 
several years before, leaving her with four boys, the 
eldest, Hermann, being but twelve years of age at the 
time. Friends of her loved husband had provided 
for the educating of them, and Hermann was now in 
the University, intending in accordance with his 
mother’s dearest wish to be a minister. Franz was 
apprenticed to a bookbinder, the third son was with a 
druggist, and the youngest boy was with a relative 
during the mother’s absence at the seashore. 

Poor Frau Ehlert’s health was broken ; she dragged 
about from day to day, hoping to gain strength that 
she might keep a home for her boys. Slie came of a 
musical family, and in better times was a fine per- 
former upon the harp and piano. She gave music 
lessons, but in the little town where she resided the 
sum she earned was small ; still it helped to eke out 
the meagre annuity which she received. And she was 
looking forward to the time when Hermann, having 
finished his studies, would have a charge and they 
would all be together. 

In the winter she had a severe attack of sickness, 
and her funds were almost exhausted. Her physician 


80 


ERXA 8TAEK. 


recommended sea air and bathing, and her friends 
contributed funds for eight weeks’ sojourn there, and 
presented her with a ticket to and from the Baths. 

For economy’s sake she arranged to take lodging 
at the fisherman’s cottage and provide for herself. 
But she had not been there long when to her dismay 
she found her money melting away rapidly, pro- 
visions being much higher than she had anticipated. 
The Baths had become popular and fashionable, 
and poor Frau Ehlert saw that unless something 
intervened she would have to leave before there 
would be time to receive any benefit from them. In 
the early morning hours of that very day she had 
counted her money, and was depressed over the result; 
and when to this depression was added the weary 
waiting at the Bath house, she was almost in despair. 

Frau Ehlert had for many years trusted to her 
Heavenly Father for her daily bread. He who had 
promised to be a father to the fatherless had never 
forsaken her. Often help had come in the most un- 
expected manner, just when the need was greatest, as it 
had that morning while sitting in the reception room ; 
and she had offered up her childlike prayer of faith, 
already so signally answered. 

Such experiences had led her to have a firm depend- 


ERNA STARK. 


81 


ence upon her Heavenly Father, who had in times 
of trouble scattered the clouds which encompassed 
her. She found comfort in prayer ; she found that 
what was best for her to have she received ; and full 
of gratitude, peace and contentment, she lay there in 
the cool, fragrant room which God had moved Frau 
Stark’s heart to provide for her. 

She was now free from all care and anxiety as to 
money matters, had good strengthening food, rode in 
a luxurious carriage to the Baths and i-eceived every 
attention while there, and was daily gaining strength. 
Phillis was so charmed wdth having her there that 
Fredrica felt repaid for her charitable act, and the 
back building, which heretofore was seldom visited by 
the little girl, became now her favorite spot. 

Fredrica had no affinity for old Anna; in trulh, she 
disliked her, and if she could have gained her wish 
Anna w’ould have been provided with a separate home 
long beforoe 

That old raven wdll bring trouble upon us, ” said 
she to her husband. “ I do not like her, and I avoid 
her all I can ; I wish you would send her away.” 

But indulgent as was Herr Stark to his young wife, 
to this he would not consent ; he had promised Erna’s 

mother that Anna should be kept in a good home 
F 


82 


ERNA STARK. 


with them for life, if she chose to remain, and he 
would not break his promise. So as Frau Fredrica 
could not get rid of her, she avoided her all she could, 
and had infected Phillis with this reserve toward the 
innocent and faithful old servitor, who deeply felt the 
neglect. 

She had looked forward to the time when Erna 
would be at home, and had comforted herself with 
the thought that there would be a change. As they 
should see the fondness of the elder daughter of the 
house for her old nurse, gradually they too w^ould be 
won over to look upon her in the light of a humble 
friend, who would do anything in her power to give 
them a moment’s happiness. Alas, there was a 
change, but it wns in the feelings of Erna ; for after 
that call on the morning following her return, she had 
never been inside Anna’s room. 

Once the old woman had become so wearied with 
longing to see her that she made bold to go into the 
house ; but she found all so much engaged that they 
had no time to welcome her, and, feeling that she was 
not wanted, she remained only a few minutes and did 
not repeat the visit. 

Ever since Fredrica’s coming, Anna very seldom 
had gone into the main dwelling. Her presence was 


ERNA STARK. 


not prohibited, but there was no real necessity for her 
going, and she saw that Fredrica wished no spy in her 
kingdom. 

Occasionally when Erna would be walking in the 
garden she would see the wistful face of old Anna at 
the window of her little room, and would throw a 
kiss to her ; but with this exception there was but lit- 
tle cordiality evinced toAvard her by the other ladies. 

The conversation she had Avith Anna on the Sab- 
bath morning after her return convinced Erna that 
their paths were far apart ; the remembrance of it was 
not pleasant, and she resolved not to run the risk of 
having it repeated. As for the new guest under the 
house roof, Erna scarcely thought of her ; all her at- 
tention being given to her OAvn pleasures and the 
young friends who helped her to make time fly so 
merrily. 

Just to think that I have taken a Frau Pastor 
unaer my Aving,’^ Fredrica had remarked to her the 
next morning after Frau Ehlert had been inducted 
into her pleasant room. I declare I don’t knoAV 
what possessed me not to suspect that she belonged to 
the pious clique. What Avill our friends think of me, 
knoAving my horror of canting psalm singers and such 
like fanatics.” 


84 


ERXA STAEK. 


Oh, well, mamma,^’ replied Erna, scarcely able to 
restrain a smile at Frau Fredrica’s evident chagrin, 
as it is so, I would try to make the best of it, and 
not let our friends know that it was a mistake on your 
part/^ 

You may be sure I shall hold a high head in the 
affair, now that the thing is done, and can’t be 
helped ; but what puzzles me is that I should walk 
with open eyes into such a trap, and never ask a 
question, when I have always been so particular as to 
the acquaintances to whom Phillis takes a fancy. I 
suppose goody-goody people would call it a special 
providence; I call it one of the most embarrassing 
misadventures it has been my lot to meet.” 

From the time of Frau Pastor Ehlert’s coming, a 
new life commenced for Phillis, and Fredrica became 
more reconciled to the state of affairs when she 
saw what a change the companionship of the gen- 
tle Christian lady made in the excitable, spoiled child ; 
and was compelled to acknowledge that she was a 
much more desirable companion for her darling than 
the gay and frivolous Hortense. 

Phillis and her old friend were inseparable, and it 
was often a mystery to the mother what the child saw 
in the plain and quiet woman, of whose society she 


EKNA STAEK. 


85 


never wearied. She noticed that the selfishness which 
had characterized Phillis had entirely disappeared, 
and with it the fits of crying which Fredrica had 
dreaded, knowing them to be of injury to the delicate 
and nervous child. 

During the bathing season Herr Stark’s mansion 
was filled with guests, and it was a great relief to 
Fredrica to have Phillis in such safe and good care as 
that of Frau Ehlert; although, to do her justice, the 
thought of any advantage to herself in having her 
there had never occurred to her mind when she in- 
vited her to stay. 

The return of her young stepdaughter added much 
to the gayety, and parties upon the water, driving 
parties and evening entertainments followed in quick 
succession, and there was seldom an evening which 
was not engaged. 

Dr. Fortescue was much in demand in all these 
festivities, and his talents as a society man, had full 
play. 

Herr Stark, on the contrary, drew more and more 
within himself. Society wearied him, and he was even 
sadder than he was usually. Fredrica’s time w^as so 
much taken up wdth her guests and Phillis, that she 
had not noticed his failing health, and Erna’s hands 


86 


EPwNA STARK. 


were full of the requirements of social life; so that 
Herr Stark was as much alone as he was before she 
came home. 

Dr. Fortescue was much in Erna’s society ; he was 
in her eyes all that was noble and good, and she saw 
none worthy to be compared with him. On his part 
all that could be said was that he loved her as well 
as he Avas capable of loving any one, and knowing 
that she was wealthy he intended winning her for his 
Avife. He Avas intensely selfish, lived for the pleasures 
of this life alone, and had no care Avhatever for the 
hereafter. Justice and injustice had no meaning for 
him further than they suited his convenience ; he be- 
lieved in no retribution for sin, no reward for a Avell- 
spent life. He considered the moralities of civilization 
as a yoke about one’s neck ; he mocked at religion, 
and even the laAvs of civil life he Avould have trans- 
gressed had there not been penalties attached to the 
offences. 

He did his best to make himself a place in Erna’s 
good opinion, and knowing her to be sincere and 
truthful, his falseness Avas at least kept in the back- 
ground. 

Had Herr Stark and his family been Christians, 
and attentive to church services and duties. Dr. 


ERNA STARK, 


87 


Fortescue, knowing that his views upon the subject 
of religion were well known, never would have dared 
aspire to her hand ; but they were all alike in that 
respect. If their views were correct upon the subject, 
so were his ; if he was in error, so too, were they. 
This circumstance gave him the assurance to decide to 
ask her hand in marriage. Had Erna Stark been a 
child of God she would have shrunk with horror from 
the thought of being united to a professed unbeliever, 
and he would not have dared request her hand. 

Although Dr. Fortescue knew they were alike in 
their views of religion, yet he did not forget that there 
was a vast difference in the natures of Erna and him- 
self, and often compared himself to Mephistopheles, 
and felt like warning her to beware of him. At such 
times a longing came over him to be as innocent, as 
unselfish, as truthful as she ; and so far, the love he 
f'elt for her was of benefit to him. He almost longed 
for some power that he could rely upon to keep him 
in the path of right, while at times he scoffed at the 
weakness that led him to think of such a state of de- 
pendence. His past life was not pleasant to think 
upon, and he would have been glad to obliterate 
it from memory. His house was indeed built upon 
the sand and was without a firm foundation. 


88 


ER^’A STARK. 


Dr. Fortescue’s mother had died when he was an 
infant, and his father, though a German, did not 
return to his native land, but left Paris for America, 
to join a colony which had settled in Wisconsin and 
had taken the name of New Germany. The colony 
had no church, no pastor, and religion was not thought 
of. In this atmosphere young Fortescue Stark grew 
up, as wild and reckless as it Avas possible to be. 

His father had given him a good education, and 
after he left the settlement he concluded to return to 
Paris for the study of medicine. From Paris he went 
to Germany to visit the distant relatives of his father, 
and there he remained. 

This then was the man whom Erna Stark had 
chosen from all the world to Avalk by her side. With- 
out religion they were Avithout a guiding star ; w*ere 
like a A^essel Avithout a compass on the stormy sea of 
life. 


CHAPTER VI. 

HERR stark’s PROMISE. 


UMMER was on the wane, and the weeks that 



^ had been specified by Frau Ehlert as the limit 
of her stay were over ; but owing to the cordial and 
pressing invitation of Frau Fredrica she was to remain. 


It had been a happy summer for Erna ; so happy 


that she did not care to think of anything but the 
present. She had but one wish, and that was that 
life might be always as beautiful as it was then. 

But Fredrica was not quite so well satisfied. She 
longed for the time when Dr. Fortescue would take 
Erna from the homestead, leaving the young step- 
mother queen of the realm, as she had been before 
Erna came. She was not the bright particular star in 
the society firmament, now that a young and beautiful 
and popular girl was there to share the entertaining 
and do the honors of the house ; and although too 
amiable and just to resent it upon Erna, and too polite 
to allow the world to know her mind, none the less 
was she anxious to have Erna away. Nothing had 
heretofore disturbed her plans ; she had no need to 


89 


90 


ERNA STARK. 


consult any one, but was as untrammelled in her daily 
life both at home and in society as it was possible to 
be. 

She was impatient with the want of deeision in Dr. 
Fortescue ; she wondered why he hesitated and dallied, 
when all that was required was to stretch out his hand 
for the prize. She admired him and admired Erna, 
and believed they would be happy together ; then why 
not marry? He was poor, but Erna had enough for 
both ; and who among all her acquaintances was to be 
compared to him ? 

It was during this time that Frau Ehlert, deeply 
grateful for the kindness shown her, spoke of giving 
up the room where she had passed so many pleasant 
hours with Phillis, and the pleasant walk by the sea, 
to return to her home. 

^^Why need you go?^’ said Frau Fredrica, in her 
hospitable way ; you can still take the baths, which 
are doing you so much good ; and Dr. Wagner says 
you should stay as long as possible. You need not be 
troubled about the money. I will see to that. You 
will do a me a real kindness to stay. Phillis is an 
entirely different child since you came ; she has not 
had a crying spell for a long time, and I can see a 
great improvement in her in every way.^^ 


ERNA STARK. 


91 


I will remain a little while longer, gladly and 
deeply grateful for your kindness.^’ And thus it was 
decided that Frau Ehlert was yet to remain an honored 
guest in the home of the wealthy Herr Stark. 

The total estrangement of the family from church 
was for a time unnoticed by Frau Ehlert, owing to her 
room being so secluded and she not being inquisitive ; 
besides, the thought had never occurred to her that 
people could live away from God. She always set out 
early for church, being compelled to walk slowly, and 
on returning went immediately to her room, remaining 
there until summoned to dinner, throughout the day 
seeing nothing of Herr and Frau Stark except at 
meals. 

The ignorance of Phillis upon religious subjects was 
a surprise to Frau Ehlert, but she supposed that it 
was owing to her ill health and nervousness that not 
anything requiring thought was urged upon her. 

How that she was becoming stronger, Frau Ehlert 
believed that she could not repay the kindness of the 
Stark family better than by instructing the little one, 
gradually and pleasantly, in things that pertain to 
eternal life. These were generally imparted in the 
form of entertaining narratives, eagerly listened to by 
Phillis. 


92 


ERNA STARK. 


Frau Ehlert would tell her of incidents which had 
come within her own knowledge, or were found in 
books she had read ; and Phillis called to mind the 
fact that often she had asked her mother to read to her 
from the books which so interested herself, and had 
been told that they were not suitable for children. 
Costly picture books had Phillis in abundance, but 
they were not enjoyed as was the plainest story told 
in simple words by Frau Ehlert. 

Fredrica spoke frequently to her guest of the great 
improvement in Phillis, and thanked her heartily for 
making her happy, by her kindness in being willing 
to entertain her and in being her society. For 
Fredrica in all her social life never had her hands so 
full as during that summer in providing amusements 
for her guests, which the bathing season and her beau- 
tiful stepdaughter’s first appearance in society made 
necessary. And she had not time to question Phillis ; 
she only knew that she was happy and contented, and 
that was enough. 

On his part, Herr Stark knew perfectly well in 
what direction the child’s attention w^as being drawn, 
and his heart went out in gratitude to the poor woman 
who was following the guidance of her conscience in 
trying to do good in whatever way she could. He 


ERNA STARK. 


' 93 

had suffered much in regard to the spiritual welfare 
of his children, and though he felt himself an alien 
from his God, at times he took comfort from the 
thought that it was perhaps because of his earnest 
petitions that this Christian woman was permitted to 
come among them. 

One evening Frau Ehlert and Phillis were seated 
in an arbor in the garden, and not far from them was 
Anna, engaged in weeding the little plot of ground in 
which she cultivated flowers and vegetables for her 
own use. Years before, Herr Stark had given her this 
portion of the large garden, and she was a skillful 
gardener, and took pride in keeping it in perfect 
order. 

Frau Ehlert had become well acquainted with and 
thoroughly respected her. They had a bond of sym- 
pathy in their love for the Saviour, and many times 
rejoiced together over the great joy in store for those 
who love and serve him. 

Aunt Ehlert, won’t you please tell me the story 
you told me last Sunday, of the little heathen child ? 
It is beautiful,” said Phillis. 

Do you mean Saco Naso ? ” 

Yes, the sickly little boy who did not remain a 
heathen, but became a Christian and was baptized.” 


94 


ERXA STARK. 


I believe you know the story quite as well as I/’ 
smiled her companion ; it would be pleasant to have 
you relate it to me.^^ 

Yes. I know it; but I so love to hear you tell it.^^ 

‘‘Well, this little boy, Saco Naso, was a heathen. 
He knew not the true God, but worshiped idols made 
of wood and stone. His father was a heathen also, 
and having heard of a missionary, quite a distance 
away, who was teaching the people to know the true 
and only God and the Saviour of the world, he walked 
all the 'fvay there to have all explained to him.’" 

“ Yes,” supplemented Phillis, eagerly ; “ and the 
grandfather did not wish him to take his four boys, 
but he did take them, all except Saco, who was not 
able to walk so far. He wished his sons to hear all 
the missionary said, so that among them, not a word 
should be lost.” 

“ You are right ; all went but little Saco. He was 
but seven years old, yet could read in his own 
language, and his father had hoped to educate him 
for a teacher among his people. Saco watched anxiously 
for the return of his father and brothers ; and then what 
joy it was to him and to his mother and little sisters 
to hear of the dear Saviour who died for them, and to 
know what was required of them in order to be saved. 


ERNA STARK. 


95 


“ They talked of all these things, and their hearts 
were filled with the love of that Saviour in whom they 
believed and trusted, and on Sabbath morning the 
missionary came, and all were baptized in the beautiful 
river which ran close by their hut.’’ 

And little Saco did not wish to keep his heathen 
name, but desired one which belonged to Christians,” 
said Phillis, eagerly. 

Yes ; he asked to have his name changed to 
Johannes, and his parents gave consent,” replied Frau 
Ehlert, his joy in being a child of God being past 
expression.” 

And after he was baptized he wished to have on 
his new clothes,” said Phillis. 

Yes ; the missionary gave him a suit that some 
church ladies in America had sent him. He called 
them his ^ Christian clothes.’ ” 

And the Bible ! ” cried Phillis, rapturously ; 
don’t forget about the Bible.” 

No ; little Saco had heard about the Bible which 
told what the Saviour had suffered, and he wished for 
one. And one day, several weeks after he had been 
baptized, his father procured one for him. He had 
gradually grown so weak that he was unable to sit up ; 
so it was placed upon the bed beside him. Time 


96 - 


ERNA STARK. 


passed oii^ and one day he asked to have his Chris- 
tian clothes put upon him, for he was about to go 
to his heavenly home. They clothed him in them, 
and with the Bible in his arms, he fell asleep to 
awaken in heaven, his last words being, ‘ My Saviour, 
my dear, dear Saviour.^ ” 

If I love the Saviour will he take me to live with 
him, and will I have no more sickness nor pain, but 
be always well ? Will I be happy, as was little Saco ? 

If you love God and obey him you are his child, 
and when you are called from earth he will take you 
to live with him in his heavenly home.’^ 

Oh, I do love him, and believe that he loves me, 
and will take me to his home in heaven, where I shall 
always be happy and never be sick any more.’’ And 
tears of joy rolled down her thin cheeks. 

At that moment old Anna came toward them, and 
turning her pale, sad face to Frau Ehlert, slie spoke a 
few words in a low tone, that only she might hear. 

Upon a bank back of the arbor, under the shade 
of a large tree, sat Herr Ludwig Stark, his heart 
wrung with sorrow for the distress of his child, but 
with no words of comfort to offer. She thought she 
was a heathen and would be lost. His sympathies 
were also for Frau Ehlert, who held the sorrowing 


EENA STARK. 


97 


child in her arms, and for old Anna, who stood before 
them pale and trembling, but whose conscience, which 
would not let her keep silent, now refused to make her 
Sony for what she had done, save for the pain it had 
given Phillis. 

I knew that this would come, yet knew not how 
to prevent it. God pity me that I have turned from 
him and forgotten the faith of my sainted wife and 
my mother,’’ thought he, bitterly; and rising, he 
went to the arbor, and, sitting by Frau Ehlert, took 
the weeping child in his arms and laid her head upon 
his breast. 

Do not weep, little Phillis,” said he, kissing her 
flushed forehead ; for papa’s sake, do not weep any 
more.” And rising, he led his daughter to the house. 

At the entrance they met Fredrica, her beautiful 
eyes beaming with joy over a sailing party in prospect : 
“ And we want you to join us, dear Ludwig, and will 
not be satisfied until you say yes,” said she, coax- 
ingly. 

Herr Stark thought he had never seen his Fredrica 
more beautiful than at that moment, so full of anima- 
tion and happiness was she, so graceful and charming, 
so light hearted, and apparently free from care. 

I do not think I can go with you, my darling ; but 
G 


98 


ERNA STARK. 


will be on hand, and meet you at the landing upon 
your return.^^ 

You never have time for me, Ludwig,” said she, 
poutingly ; but,” continued she, anxiously, what 
ails my little Phillis? She has been weeping. She has 
not enough amusement, poor little one. I will take 
her to-day upon the water.” 

I think it scarcely advisable to take her,” said Herr 
Stark ; the afternoons are short and the evenings are 
cool, and the doctor directed us to allow her to run 
no risk of damp air.” 

Well, then, Hortense can take her to the lighthouse, 
and as we pass, little Phillis can throw flowers toward 
our boat. She can stand on the shore and hear the 
music and see the pretty flags and streamers. Will 
not that be nice, Phillis ? ” 

Yes, mamma ; and the very prettiest flowers I will 
throw toward you, as I did the last time you went 
sailing.” 

Well, let us hasten to the housekeeper about cur 
early dinner, and to Mademoiselle Hortense in regard 
to a pretty costume for you,” said the mother, 
cheerily. And taking the hand of Phillis, they 
flitted away. 

Hortense was seated by a table busied, apparently. 


ERNA STARK. 


99 


with a slip of embroidery, but in her apron, with her 
silks, was a letter which, in her haste to conceal it, she 
dropped upon the floor. She stooped to pick it up, 
hoping to hide the sudden flush which rose to her 
cheek ; but Phillis reached it first and gave it into her 
hand, though not before Frau Fredrica had read the 
address upon it, and seen that it was in the hand- 
writing of Dr. Fortescue. 

Since the memorable evening of the tableaux, Frau 
Fredrica had seen nothing to awaken suspicion, yet 
she had not forgotten the flirtation of that evening, 
and her feeling toward Hortense in consequence was 
anything but friendly. 

She had reason for believing that matters were pro- 
gressing finely with Dr. Fortescue and Erna, and had 
thought that perhaps that very evening the betrothal 
would be announced. F(U’ as he consulted herself and 
Erna that day in regard to the sailing party, she 
noticed that he seemed disturbed and somewFat 
nervous, from which she was encouraged to believe 
that he intended that evening to be the turning point 
of his destiny. 

Frau Fredrica w^as a born matchmaker, and, where 
any interest to herself was concerned, could plan 
eflectively. Therefore she resolved that if it depended 


100 


EENA STAEK. 


upon her, the opportunity should not be wanting for 
him to speak while upon the sailing party. 

Frau Fredrica could read the signs of the times 
better than the majority of people, and many times had 
her husband and Erna smiled over her astute di- 
vinings ; and they, as well as others, almost looked 
upon her as a prophetess. 

She resolved, therefore, that the discovery she had 
made of the letter addressed io Hortense should be 
kept to herself, well knowing that the information 
would not promote lier plans. 

She was incensed at Fortescue for his falseness, and 
wished to punish him in some way. She thought of 
planning some excuse to postpone the marriage, which 
she was quite sure would soon follow the betrothal ; 
but, w^ell knowing that the punishment would be 
greater to herself than to him, she concluded it better 
policy not to risk it. 

Afternoon came. A soft west wind was gently 
agitating the waters of the sea, and three pleasure 
boats were gently rocking near the shore, awaiting the 
gay party. The company was headed by a full band 
of musicians, who were coming, gayly chatting and 
laughing, from the home of the Starks, where they had 
agreed to meet. 


EENA STARK. 


101 


Dr. Fortescue and Erna were in the last boat, which 
Fredrica, noticing, resolved should be her place also ; 
and soon all were bounding over the white-capped 
waves. 

In a few moments they neared the lighthouse, where 
stood Hortense and Phillis, waiting for the boat in 
which was Frau Stark to come nearer, that Phillis 
might throw the flowers. 

Hortense was so deeply absorbed in watching Dr. 
Fortescue, Avho had bent his stately head and was 
whispering something to Ema, that she entirely forgot 
Phillis, who had stepped upon a stone which was 
moist and slippery. A cry of terror caused all upon 
the boat to glance toward Fredrica, and then toward 
the shore. Phillis had disappeared beneath the waves. 

Had not strong hands grasped Fredrica she would 
have plunged into the sea to save her darling ; and her 
cries for help to rescue her were truly pitiable. 

Darling, I will bring your little sister back to 
you,^^ said Dr. Fortescue to Erna, whose white lips 
could not frame a reply before he sprang overboard 
and struck out for the drowning child. 

There was terrible anguish and suspense on the 
boats when the doctor rose to the surface without 
Phillis ; but he was not intending to relinquish the 


102 


ERNA STARK. 


search. He dived again, and after a time that seemed 
ages to the wretched mother, he was seen swimming 
toward the boat holding Phillis upon one arm. 

The whole affair had happened so quickly that 
Phillis scarcely lost consciousness, but she was bewil- 
dered by the strange faces about her, wdiile Fredrica 
wept for joy on finding her darling safe. 

Where have I been that I got so wet ? ’’ inquired 
Phillis, wonderingly. 

^^You fell into the sea, darling; and had it not 
been for Dr. Fortescue you would have been drowned.’^ 

I was near being drowned ; near dying, and am a 
heathen,^^ cried Phillis, clasping her hands in distress. 

^Hs she out of her mind, doctor cried Fredrica, 
in fright. 

^^No, she is perfectly conscious and rational,’^ 
replied he.^’ 

Who could have put such stuff into her head ? 
said Fredrica, angrily, as she strove to soothe her. 

Listen, Phillis,’^ said Dr. Fortescue, sneeringly, 
while a cold glitter came into his eyes : I have never 
believed, so I suppose I am a heathen, as you call it. 
But I must acknowledge that in spite of it I have as 
much pleasure in life as those who set up as models, 
and enjoy excellent health.’^ 



Erna Stark 


Page lOJ 





EEXA STARK. 


103 


Erna shuddered at the tone as well as the words. 
AYas that the same voice that had just breathed words 
of love to her, promising to be a guide and protector 
through life? She had been so happy in his love! 
Could she ever be so again? Would not the thought 
of this hour embitter her whole life ? Could she be 
blind to the impression which he had made upon the 
pleasure-seekers, who appeared almost frightened at 
the speech and the manner of the speaker ? Fredrica 
came to the rescue of the deliverer of her child, and 
with warmly expressed thanks bridged over the 
silence that had begun to grow noticeable. 

He acknowledged her gratitude with graceful light- 
ness, and said it was pleasant indeed to find himself 
lionized at such a small outlay of exertion ; and that 
he had always sighed for some way in which to dis- 
tinguish himself, but never supposed it would be in 
the direction of life-saving. He was at heart rejoiced 
over the achievement, believing that Erna’s father 
would find it difficult to refuse to listen to the suit of 
one who had saved the life of his loved daughter. 

In the meantime the boat was turned toward the 
shore, for it was important that Phillis should have 
her wet clothing removed at the earliest possible 
moment, and as soon as they landed Frau Fredrica 


104 


ERNA STARK, 


and Erna took her to a fisherman’s cottage, and a 
suit of dry garments were provided for her. Others 
of the party hurried to the residence of Herr Stark to 
have the carriage sent to the landing for them, and 
Dr. Fortescue hurried to his hotel to change his 
soaked garments. 

The news had reached Herr Stark at his office, and 
he was already on his way to the strand before the 
messenger could reach his dwelling. With joy he 
clasped his wife and child in his arms, both saved ; 
for he had suffered agonies, having heard that Fredrica 
had plunged into the sea to save her child and that 
it was with difficulty that either was rescued. 

Phillis, seated between her parents in the carriage, 
wept all the way home, the words of Dr. Fortescue 
having added another trouble to her already over- 
burdened heart. 


CHAPTER VII. 


FATHER AND DAUGHTER. 

T he moment they reached home, Frau Stark had 
Phillis placed in bed and warm teas given her, 
hoping to ward off the danger to her health, because 
of her delicate constitution, the coolness of the water, 
and the length of time she had remained in her wet 
clothing. 

Fredrica saw her comfortable, with Frau Ehlert by 
her bedside, and then returned to the parlor, where 
Herr Stark and Erna were talking of the accident. 

It is impossible to keep Hortense any longer,” 
said Fredrica, as she entered; ^^her presence will 
always remind me of this terrible day, and she must 
leave immediately.” 

^^Do you really think the poor girl so much to 
blame?” questioned Herr Stark, deprecatingly. We 
all are liable to be off our guard at times, and no 
doubt she was terribly frightened at the result of her 
carelessness. It seems to me that that should be 
punishment enough.” 


105 


106 


erxa staek. 


But this view of the case did not suit Frau I red- 
rica at all ; she had long wished for the opportunity 
to get the pretty French girl away from her house, 
looking upon her as an obstacle to her plans in regard 
to Dr. Fortescue and Erna, and she believed that her 
going would facilitate matters greatly. 

She however felt a reluctance to tell Dr. Fortescue 
that she should send her away. Although the neglect 
of Phillis was a good excuse, yet she knew it would 
be unwelcome news to him, to whom she was so 
grateful for saving her child that she disliked to 
wound him. Still, she felt it must be done. If 
Hortense were well out of the way, his attention 
would not be attracted away from Erna ; the betrothal 
would be announced, the marriage speedily follow, 
Erna be in a house of her own, and Fredrica again 
sole autocrat in the Stark home. 

To supply the place of Hortense, Fredrica intended 
making Frau Ehlert the offer of a good home at a 
good salary, and believed that she would accept. 
Thus all care for Phillis would be removed ; for 
governess, music teacher, companion, and friend 
would be secured in one. 

Neither Herr Stark nor Frau Fredrica slept well 
that night, their nerves were so shaken by the acci- 


ERNA STARK. 


107 


dent which came near robbing them of their darling ; 
but Phillis slept better than usual, and the next day 
seemed well, as though nothing had happened. 

Erna also passed a sleepless night, owing mainly to 
the fright and anxiety for the safety of Phillis and 
her rescuer ; but there w’as also another cause which 
drove slumber from her pillow. While in the boat 
before the accident. Dr. Fortescue told her that he had 
written to her father asking his consent to the mar- 
riage, and she had promised him to speak to her 
father in his behalf. But while not herself a Chris- 
tian, she was distressed at the manner in which he 
had spoken to little Phillis in regard to the Christian 
faith. Though skeptical herself, she had never seen 
infidelity presented with such coarse brutality, and 
her refined and sensitive nature was really shocked. 

She had in her anxiety mentioned the matter to 
Fredrica that evening, by the bedside of Phillis, and 
was rewarded by being thoroughly ridiculed in the 
following good-natured way : 

“Why, my dear Erna, could you not see that it 
was done to make us feel comfortable? He was 
embarrassed by so much gratitude on our part, and 
tried to say something that would put us at our ease ; 
and his joking with Phillis was, I am sure, the very 


108 


EKNA STARK. 


best thing possible for her. Had he been serious in 
the matter and fostered the silly notion that had been 
put into her head, I don’t know what evil result might 
have followed. I wonder at you, Erna, that you 
could not see his motive.” 

Erna loved Hr. Eortescue, and was willing to 
believe all that was said in his favor. She tried to 
forget his look when he said the things which had so 
grated upon her feelings, but hoped that all was as 
Fredrica said. She wished to think the very best of 
the one into whose keeping she had promised, with 
her father’s consent, to place her earthly happiness. 

The words of her little sister also rang in her ears 
and added to the care which robbed her of sleep : 
have never become a Christian; I am a heathen.” 
And with them would return the sarcastic, sneering 
smile of her betrothed, and the words of her father in 
regard to him the night of her return from the pen- 
sion. She feared that she never could have the same 
confidence in Eortescue as before the sailing party. 
She had no intention of breaking her promise of 
speaking to her father, but her bright hopes were 
clouded and her spirits saddened ; her idol had feet 
of clay. 

It was dawn before she closed her eyes in slumber. 


ERNA STARK. 


109 


and after an hour or two of uneasy and unrefreshing 
sleep, she arose and dressed, feeling a weight upon her 
spirits never before experienced. 

Herr Stark arose late, and after partaking of break- 
fast he went to the library, w'here lay a letter upon 
his desk, awaiting his attention. He broke the seal, 
opened and read it to the end, wliile a frown settled 
upon his forehead and a paleness upon his lips. He 
perused it for the second time, then rose and paced 
the floor, anxiously. 

^^What have I been thinking of? Where have 
been my eyes?’^ thought he, bitterly, that I have 
allowed this man to dare ask such a question of me ? 
As poor as has been my opinion of him, I never 
imagined that he could have so little delicacy of 
feeling as to make his saving the life of one daughter 
a plea for asking the hand of another. Here he tells 
me that he has been accepted by Erna, and only 
awaits my sanction. I have been culpably negligent. 
I should have warned her against the arrogant, 
unprincipled man of whose early life we know noth- 
ing. It is really a painful thought to me.’^ 

At that moment the door opened quietly and Erna 
looked in. 

^^Are you at leisure, papa?^^ she said, in a voice 


110 


ERNA STARK. 


unsteady from nervous embarrassment. I wish to 
have a little conversation with you.^^ 

^^Yes, come in, my Erna; I also wish to speak 
with you. You do not look as though you slept any 
better than your mamma and I. Was it because of 
Phillis that you are sad and your eyes are heavy ? 

^^Yes, papa, partly on that account; but I have 
other cares which kept me awake, and it was these 
which brought me so early to see you. Papa, Dr. 
Fortescue has asked me to be his wife.” 

And what answer did you make, my Erna ? ” 

“ I love him, papa, and I told him I would be his, 
if you would consent. I told him I did not think 
you would object.” 

“ I do object, Erna. I cannot lielp being opposed 
to it, and yet I feel deeply wounded to have to refuse 
my consent to the man who has just saved the life of 
my child.” 

Erna looked at her father in dumb surprise. That 
he would refuse positively to give consent had never 
crossed her mind, and she began to realize wEy Dr. 
Fortescue had requested her to speak for him. Her 
betrothed had been a welcome guest in the house, had 
never been looked upon as a stranger, but w'as treated 
almost as one of the family, and wirh her stepmother 


ERNA STARK. 


Ill 


as chaperon, she had gone constantly into society with 
him. What else could be expected than that they 
should become attached to each other? What had 
all their friends anticipated but that they would 
marry ? To Erna’s mind there was such great 
injustice in her father’s decision against him that it 
created a sympathy in favor of Fortescue, and the 
adverse feeling against his manner the day before was 
almost obliterated. 

Herr Stark waited a moment for her to speak, but 
as she was silent, he resumed the conversation. 

‘^A stranger, wliom we have only known a few 
months, without means, and with no business to speak 
of, has, I think, much presumption to raise his eyes 
to a daughter of mine. That he is poor would be no 
objection, were he in any way worthy of your love. 
It troubles me that he only lives for pleasure, and 
appears to take no interest whatever in obtaining a 
practice or in doing anything to earn an honest liveli- 
hood. I am a merchant and know the value of 
money, but I know you will believe me when I say 
that his poverty would be no objection were he in 
other respects a man who, in my opinion, would make 
you happy.’^ 

Papa,” said Erna, I had no idea that you felt 


112 


EENA STAEK. 


SO toward him. You saw us so much together, why 
did you not warn me before I learned to love 
him 

^^You love him, Erna?^’ said her father, in a 
pained voice. Love excuses much, but it does not 
hinder bitter repentance when it is too late. Oh, my 
child, give up the thought of marriage with this man ! 
Believe what I say to you.^’ 

Papa, ask yourself if it be a light thing to cease 
to love. Since I have known him, my first waking 
thought has been of him, his name the last upon my 
lips ere I closed my eyes in sleep. You have loved, 
and know that it is easier to part with life than to 
turn from the one beloved. If you had warned me 
when I first became acquainted with him, your lightest 
wish should have been law to me. I would now blot 
him from my heart in obedience to your wish, but it 
is not in my power.’^ 

Your censure of me is just, my Erna. It was not 
only thoughtless, but ci’uel in me not to warn you. I 
never thought of the likelihood of your loving him. 
To me he is anything but attractive, and it did not 
occur to me that you might think differently. Yet it 
is not too late, my daughter ; let me hope that it is 
not too late. Listen to your father, whose greatest 


ERXA STARK. 


113 


wish is to see you happy. My conscience is burdened 
enough already ; do not lay a new weight upon 
it.’' 

I would forget him, papa, if I could, but it is 
impossible. Could you, at the bidding of another, 
cast out your love for my blessed mother? Could 
you cast out your love for my beautiful stepmother?” 

Erna sat down and pressed her handkerchief to her 
eyes, while Herr Stark walked to and fro through the 
apartment. 

^^Hear me, my darling,” said he at length, pausing 
before her ; my heart is burdened as the result of 
a mistake in my own life, which I wish to preserve 
you from making. It has made me old before my 
time; and I will say this to you, that in marriage one 
takes a choice between perpetual happiness and 
eternal perdition, between blessing and cursing ; and 
of that I know whereof I speak. I only can prevail 
upon myself to do so in order to show you the preci- 
pice upon which you stand. If you will take my 
advice, you will give him up entirely ; but if you are 
not willing, then I demand that you shall not marry 
him until he is established in some business. Idle- 
ness is the foundation of misery, and until he has a 
settled employment, I will not give my consent.” 

FI 


114 


ERNA STARK. 


Erna listened attentively, and when her father had 
finished, she clasped his hand in hers and assured him 
that she would abide entirely by his decision. 

Again Herr Stark walked back and forth through 
the apartment. The communication he was about to 
make would cost him much, but he would, at any 
suffering to himself, do all he could to save his 
daughter from the wretchedness which he believed 
would be hers should she marry Dr. Fortescue. 

^^As you know, my Erna,^^ said he, taking a chair 
in front of her, the Starks are of an old and noble 
family, and for generations have had two distin- 
guishing traits, — honor and piety. That was the 
rock upon which our house was founded. The 
parents were Christians, and the children were trained 
in the fear and admonition of the Lord. Your 
mother had all the virtues that contribute to the 
making of a noble woman. As deeply as I loved her, 
it is only in these later years that I appreciated her 
full worth. Her death was a terrible blow to me, 
but I knew where to go for comfort ; and although 
my faith was but a glimmering torch, yet I realized 
that she whom I so loved was also the beloved of the 
I..ord, that our separation would be but for a short 
time^ and then we should meet in heaven, never again 


EENA STARK. 


115 


to part. I promised her that I would train you to 
be a child of God. 

After some years I met my beautiful Fredrica, — 
you know how dear she is to me, — and knowing that 
you admire and love her, gives me courage to impart 
my troubles to you. God has endowed this gracious 
being with many gifts, and, as you say in regard to 
Dr. Fortescue, I loved her from the first moment of 
seeing her. How great would have been the blessing 
to me had she been trained in the belief and knowl- 
edge of sacred things. Instead, she has been trained 
to look upon the hereafter as a myth, and to scorn 
the revelations of the divine Word. I have yoked 
myself to an unbeliever, and it has weaned me from 
my church. That I have been thus influenced is 
evidence that my godliness had no firm foundation. 
I was a reed shaken by the wind. Again and again 
has my conscience been awakened, and I have longed 
for a guiding hand over me, a Saviour to go to in my 
troubles, feeling weak and helpless and alone. With 
this longing, I was also conscious that I was respon- 
sible for the spiritual welfare of my children. Your 
training was in accordance with the wishes of your 
stepmother, at an institution where the subject of 
religion in all its bearings was ignored, in order that 


116 


ERNA STARK. 


Jews, Catholics, or heathen could be consistently 
admitted there. This is the way that I have kept 
my promise to your mother. All the church ordi- 
nances which for generations have been the privileges 
of my family are, by my own fault, denied to me. 
Should I die, the bell would not be tolled for me, 
nor would my body be allowed to repose in the family 
vault of the Starks, where lie my wife and all my 
loved ones. 

^^All this is hard to bear, but it is not the worst. 
My soul hungers and thirsts for the strengthening of 
God^s love, longs for the ordinances of the church, 
and my heart now aches to learn that, by my neglect, 
little Phillis has to grieve that she is not a Christian. 
The Spirit of God has touched her childish heart, and 
I have the blessed conviction that the work begun 
will be finished. But in what way? That lies in 
darkness, kept from my questioning eyes. And you, 
my Erna, how stands it with you, who, in the early 
years of your life, had the training of your Christian 
mother? Through my negligence and want of care 
over you, you are upon the point of uniting yourself 
to one who, without shame, acknowledges himself to 
be an open enemy to all religion. Oh, Erna, pity 
your father; visit not this great responsibility upon 


ERXA STARK. 


117 


my grey hairs And with trembling voice he raised 
his sad eyes to her face. 

Moved to tears, and dumb with grief and surprise, 
Erna looked into the pale face of her father, and 
clasping his hand in hers, she pressed her lips upon 
it. Of the possibility of such a sorrow for such a 
cause she had never imagined. She had known life 
only from its bright side. That her father, whom she 
loved and honored above all others upon earth, should 
have such trouble hidden in the depths of his heart, 
and should bring it forth to warn her of danger, was 
a revelation indeed. Long- forgotten remembrances 
of her early life came crowding to her inner vision, 
yet she could not summon courage to offer her love 
for Dr. Fortescue a sacrifice upon the altar of these 
remembrances. 

What was to her the hope of blessedness in a future 
state ? She had heard but fragmentary hints of such 
a future ; it was as vague in her mind as a shadow or 
half-forgotten dream. The present was all she could 
claim, and it was sufficient for her ; she asked and 
wished for nothing more. Was she asked to give up 
the sure present for the sake of the fabulous future? 
She longed to obey her father, yet her heart was heavy 
within her. 


]18 


ERNA STARK. 


Herr Stark looked with anxious gaze upon his 
daughter and could read her thoughts in her express- 
ive countenance. He said : 

I cannot expect you to see at once the value of 
the advice I am giving you ; it is all so unexpected 
to you. All I ask is time. Do not, without grave 
reflection, take a step which may embitter your whole 
life. Let Fortescue leave the city; there is no open- 
ing here for him in his profession, and when he gets 
w'ell established elsewhere, then let him return for 
you, and if you have not changed your mind, I will 
then offer no objection.’^ 

It shall be as you say, papa,^^ said Erna, with 
tear-dimmed eyes, ^^and I thank you for the confi- 
dence you have given me.^’ 

^^And one thing more, my Erna,’^ said he, detain- 
ing her as she arose to go ; have made a resolution 
to again unite with God’s people. The longing of 
Phillis for the love of Christ has paved the way, and 
Eredrica, who denies her child nothing, will give in, 
and for the rest God will care. But you, my darling 
Erna, comfort your father with the hope that you 
too will follow our lead.” 

I must think over it, dear papa. I am so con- 
fused and dulled by what I have heard that I cannot 


ERNA STARK. 


119 


frame an intelligent answer. I will do the best I 
can.’’ 

Herr Stark took her in his arms and kissed her 
forehead. May God bless you, my loved one,” said 
he ; you have taken a great burden off my heart, — 
a burden almost too heavy to be borne.” 

The father and daughter left the library, Erna to 
hasten to her room to think over all that had been 
said, while Herr Stark sought his wife. 

The anger of Fredrica was past expression when 
she heard the result of the conversation. She wept ; 
she bitterly upbraided him for his ingratitude toward 
Dr. Fortescue, who had saved the life of his child ; 
she accused him for purposely thwarting her plans, 
hurled bitter sarcasms against his longings for a better 
life, and denounced religion as mummery and its 
votaries as frauds. But after her vials of wrath had 
become exhausted, she found all had been without 
avail ; Herr Stark was immovable, and his obduracy 
being so unexpected, was the harder to endure. Was 
this defeat an evidence that the sceptre was about to 
pass out of her hands into those of her stepdaughter? 

It added much to her vexation that the marriage 
was postponed for what she deemed a trifling cause; 
but she was compelled to submit, as was also Fortes- 


1:20 


ERNA STARK. 


cue, who called to bid the family good-bye, and saw 
only Fredrica. In token of her gratitude for saving 
the life of Phillis, she gave him a valuable diamond 
pin. 

Frau Fredrica would have given evidence of her 
indignation in a very pronounced way in the days 
which followed had not a subject, which was even 
nearer at heart than that of Erna’s marriage, occupied 
her thoughts and attention to the exclusion of every- 
thing else. The cold bath and wet clothing had been 
of no advantage to Phillis; she had taken a severe 
cold, fever had set in, and Fredrica was almost beside 
herself with anxiety. 

Her fears Avere not groundless ; the symptoms 
pointed to danger, and Dr. Wagner looked grave 
v/hen he saw her. For two days and nights the child 
raved in delirium, and in all that time Fredrica never 
left the bedside. With haggard face, sunken eyes, 
and her beautiful golden hair disheveled, she looked 
no more the beautiful Fredrica who had graced the 
sailing party ; and Herr Stark’s heart Avas filled with 
anxiety for his Avife as Avell as for his child. He 
besouglit her to take comfort. But poor Fredrica 
kncAV not Avhere to turn for help in time of need ; she 
had trusted to human hands and they had failed her. 


ERNA STARK. 


121 


At length there came a change, and Dr. Wagner, 
who had been faithful in his attendance, gave them 
hope ‘ for Phillis slept. 

It was now that Frau Ehlert proved herself 
invaluable to the anxious mother ; for Fredrica was 
willing to take rest, knowing that the pastor’s widow 
would keep faithful watch, and would inform her 
should she be needed. So, now that immediate danger 
was over, she and Erna were night watchers, and 
Fredrica was with her darling during the day. 

It was in the silent watches of the night that Frau 
Ehlert and Erna became known to each other, and 
the young girl learned much by the bedside of her 
little sister. The conversation with her father had 
led her to reflect as she had never done before, and 
she often felt her heart thrill at the remembrance of 
the confidence reposed in her, imparted to her for her 
own good. 

Frau Pastor Ehlert saw much to admire in the fair 
girl, who, until this sickness came, had been so bril- 
liant, charming, and full of life, but who now, pale 
and anxious, sat patiently by the sick bed of Phillis, 
watching every change. 

Frau Ehlert saw that her anxiety was not altogether 
for the little sister ; she was dimly conscious that a 


122 


EKNA STARK. 


battle was being fought in the heart of the young girl, 
and could only pray that the victory might be in 
favor of the right. Old Anna, in her dim little room 
prayed, thanking God who had sent his Holy Spirit 
into that home and touched the heart of the little 
Phillis, having faith that great results would follow. 


CHAPTER yill. 


THROUGH DARKNESS TO LIGHT. 



LTHOUGH out of danger for the time, Phillis 


-CL (Ji(J not seem to improve as they had hoped. 
She lay most of the time in a half-sleep, and appeared 
but partly conscious when aroused. Weeks went by 
ere she could remember the past and call to mind her 
father’s promise in regard to her baptism. 

Erna and Frau Ehlert besought him to gratify the 
child’s longing; and while filled wuth feverish anxiety 
to keep his promise, he feared that his wife’s consent 
could not be obtained, and in her terribly nervous 
condition he dreaded to take the responsibility of 
insisting upon it. So, unless there were danger in 
delay, he thought it advisable to let time solve the 
problem which was agitating him, and in his heart 
prayed for a miracle that would reconcile the diverse 
views of his wife and child. 

Frau Fredrica was much changed by her days and 
nights of anxiety. The least excitement caused faint- 
ness, and Dr. Wagner warned Herr Stark against 


123 


124 


ETINA STAEK. 


allowing her to be agitated in any way. It was this 
that kept his lips sealed in regard to the wish of his 
little daughter. 

The minds of all were kept anxious by the con- 
tinued weakness of Phillis and the return of her fever 
each evening, and Fredrica’s days were passed in 
alternate hope and despondency. All the physicians 
of note within reach had seen her daughter and could 
give no hope of recovery. But it was a comfort to 
the poor mother to try every means to save her dar- 
ling ; and although Herr Stark and Erna knew there 
was no hope of benefiting her, they did not discourage 
the mother from trying each new physician and 
remedy which came to her knowledge. 

One sultry afternoon, Fredrica sat at the bedside 
holding her darling’s hand in hers, and for the second 
time since the sailing party the words came to her 
pale lips : “ I am not a child of God ; 1 am not bap- 
tized ; I am a poor little heathen.” 

Herr Stark was standing at the foot of the bed, 
gazing upon his fading flower and the fair mother 
bathed in tears; for Phillis was much feebler, and 
Fredrica knew it. 

^^Why do you not keep your promise to the 
child? Why do you not gratify her by having 


ERNA STARK. 


125 


her baptized ? said she sharply, looking toward her 
husband. 

Could it be possible ! Did he hear aright ? When 
he for weeks had been trying to frame words that 
would influence Frau Fredrica to allow the baptism, 
was she proposing it of her own free will ? 

“Thank God for this great victory, said Frau 
Ehlert, softly, as she clasped her hands in gratitude. 

Fredrica insisted that it should be done as soon as 
possible, for in her heart was the thought, “ If there 
be a God, perhaps he has power over life and death, 
and may give me the life of my darling.^^ 

“ Let me be baptized in the sea, dear papa, where 
you and I sat the evening that sister Erna came home,^^ 
said Phillis, her eyes beaming with joy. “ Saco Naso 
was baptized in the river which ran close by his hut; 
but you will carry me in your arms, dear papa, and 
mamma and sister Erna, and dear Aunt Ehlert, and 
Anna will stand on the shore and see me taken into 
the fold, a little lamb of God.’’ 

“It shall be as you say, my darling,” replied the 
father. “ The spot you select is the same where your 
papa was baptized, his loving parents standing by, 
many years ago.” 

Herr Stark lost no time in seeing Pastor Muller, 


126 


ERNA STARK. 


and it was decided that Phillis should be baptized the 
next day at noon, she being always stronger in the 
early part of the day. Near the appointed hour Pas- 
tor Muller entered the Stark home for the first time 
since Fredrica had become its mistress. 

The fragile, childish form was arrayed in spotless 
white, her golden hair crowning her head like an 
aureola — her beauty almost appearing not of earth. 

The father took her in his arms, and the little pro- 
cession went down the pleasant street, soon reaching 
the strand, where he placed her in the care of the pas- 
tor ; and Phillis was immersed in the calm, beautiful, 
sunlit sea. 

It was a moment never to be forgotten by those who 
witnessed it. The father, deeply moved, recalled to 
mind his own baptism, and regrets for his after wan- 
dering from the fold ; while Erna, near by, longed to 
be worthy to receive this blessed outward signification 
of a renewed, regenerated heart. She had strayed 
from her early teachings, had wandered in the wilder- 
ness of doubt and indifference, and it had not brought 
peace. Frau Ehlert and Anna wept tears of joy at 
this evidence of answer to their prayers, and their 
earnest petitions ascended for the salvation of every 
one under the homestead roof. Only Fredrica stood 


ERNA STARK. 


127 


apart, — a mocking smile upon her lips at the absurd- 
ity of the whole afPair/^ as she in her heart considered 
it. Of the significance of the ordinance, she had no 
knowledge; had never given it a serious thought. 
And now her mind was occupied with the hope that 
the heart of Phillis was set at rest by the fulfillment 
of her long desired wish, and that she would recover, 
and the baptism in this way prove a benefit. 

They hastened to the carriage which was waiting 
for them, and Fredrica being assisted took Phillis 
upon her lap, Herr Stark and Pastor Muller sitting 
opposite, and they were driven rapidly home. 

The beautiful eyes of Phillis beamed with joy, the 
look of anxiety and longing having disappeared from 
her expressive face. 

Tears filled the eyes of all, but they were tears of 
happiness; Fredrica looking forward to restored 
health for her darling. 

Erna reached the house just as the pastor was leav- 
ing it. 

I have a request to make of you,’’ said she, in a 
trembling voice. I too long to be a child of God, 
but am ignorant of all that tends to redemption, as 
it has only been during the past few weeks that my 
attention has been called to it. To-day the longing 


128 


er:n’a stark. 


has come to me to be a happy Christian, like my little 
sister/^ 

You cannot be happier than I, that your attention 
has been called to this great, this only vital subject. 
The Spirit of God has indeed entered this home.^^ 

It seemed that the fulfillment of her ardent wish 
had been such a joy to Phillis that for a time she ap- 
peared really better, and Fredrica said to herself, 
There is a God, and he will spare my child to me.^^ 
After that day Pastor Muller visited the Stark 
family frequently, and there was always a warm wel- 
come for him from Herr Stark, Erna, and Phillis ; 
but Fredrica always left the room before his entrance. 

I do not like pastors,’^ she said by way of excuse ; 
‘Hhey make me melancholy, reminding me always of 
a funeral.^^ 

Fredrica, like most worldly persons, had a fear of 
death, and tried to avoid thinking of it ; filling her 
life so far with pleasure, that no time could be allowed 
for reflection. Those who love the Saviour have not 
tliat slavish fear, being willing to follow where he 
leads, looking upon the grave as the gateway through 
which we pass to eternal life ; as the resting place for 
the weary body, while the soul passes on to eternal 
briglitness, peace and rest. 


ERNA STARK. 


129 


No greater contrast, therefore, in view of death, 
could be found than that between Phillis and her 
mother ; F redrica dreading it as an enemy that might 
at any time steal upon her unawares, and her little 
daughter looking upon it as a beautiful messenger to 
take her to be forever happy with her Lord. 

Not long after the baptism of Phillis, Herr Stark 
had a conversation with Pastor Muller. I much 
desire,^’ said Herr, ^Ho be restored to the place 1 held 
in the church before my marriage. Will you, my 
friend, and your assistants give me welcome?’’ 

“ Ask yourself,' dear Herr Stark, if we dare refuse. 
It was not the ninety and nine which the loving shep- 
herd grieved for ; it was the one that had strayed from 
the fold.” 

I felt quite sure that you would receive me, ” 
said Herr Stark ; “ but yet I have many disturbances ; 

my wife — my Fredrica ” 

• Why do you look upon the dark side, my friend ? 
Kemember the promise, ^ All things work together for 
good to them that love God.” 

‘^Yes; yet I cannot help wishing that I could 
think of some way to reconcile my wife to it,” replied 
he, with a sigh. 

Have you nc confidence in the thought that the 
I 


130 


EEJSTA STAEK. 


way will be smoothed for you ? Be comforted with 
the assurance that your Heavenly Father will not 
allow you to be tried beyond your strength. Think 
of the opposition of your wife in regard to the baptism 
of your child. When the time came, she w^as the one 
who proposed it. Be assured, my friend, that God 
will attend to that matter for you. Leave all in his 
hand.^^ 

A grown pupil is generally troublesome, dear 
Herr Pastor. Have patience with me that I cannot 
cast all my care upon the Lord ; and yet the acquies- 
cence of my Fredrica in the case of the baptism, I 
cannot but look upon in the light of a miracle granted 
in answer to my prayers.” 

And again our prayers will be answered. In that 
I have firm trust,” replied the old v)astor, as he arose 
to go. 

The baptism of Phillis had indeed put new life into 
Erna and her father, for upon the Sunday following 
they went to church for the first time in many years ; 
and Herr Stark was happier than he ever expected to be 
again in this world. They agreed with each other that 
their places there should never again be vacant, unless 
circumstances over which they had no control pre- 
vented it. 


ERNA STARK. 


131 


diristmas-tide was drawing near, and upon Erna de- 
Tolved the preparations for it ; for Fredrica shuddered 
at the thought of any cheer, in view of the separation 
from her loved daughter. Phillis longed to see the 
brilliantly lighted tree, and Erna resolved to gratify 
her. 

In the years when Fredrica had management of the 
Christmas festivities, they were brilliant indeed ; the 
significance of the festival being a dead letter to her, 
as her only object was to celebrate the time with more 
luxurious expenditure than any of her acquaintances 
could afford. So the most costly decorations were 
upon the tree, the presents were elegant, and the tables 
groaned with the richest viands that money could pro- 
cure ; and the young wife of the wealthy Herr Lud- 
wig Stark was gratified with the praises showered 
upon her. 

As they had but few relatives, the elegant home 
was filled with guests, and music and dancing were 
the order of the day ; and her elegant entertainment 
became the theme upon every tongue. 

Erna knew nothing of the manner in which her 
stepmother had celebrated the blessed Christmas-tide, 
and at the pension it was not celebrated in any way ; 
so she was guided entirely by Frau Ehlert in her 


132 


ERNA STARK. 


preparations for it. It was certainly very different 
from that of former years. The tree was placed in 
the room of Phillis, that from her bed she could view 
it without exertion. It was made brilliant with 
many wax tapers ; the inexpensive presents were 
placed at its foot, and the delight of Phillis knew no 
bounds, when the children of the poor school marched 
around it, two by two, and sang a beautiful Christ- 
mas hymn. After this each one was presented with a 
useful gift from her hand, provided by Erna, at the 
suggestion of F rau Ehlert. 

Could heaven be more beautiful than this ? 
whispered Phillis to Erna, after the children had sung 
a joyful anthem around the brilliant tree. 

Much more beautiful, dear little heaii:,’^ whispered 
Erna, as she kissed her tenderly. The singers there 
will be white robed angels, with soft white wings, 
and their voices will be far sweeter than anything we 
can imagine.’^ 

Fredrica had heard the question and the reply, and 
a smile of derision crossed her lips. If her child w'as 
so happy in the delusion, she would not for worlds rob 
her of it ; but that an intelligent, educated girl like 
Erna should believe such fables, seemed beyond com- 
prehension. And yet, in poor Fredrica’s heart was 


ERNA STARK. 


133 


a yearning for something better than the world had 
yet offered ; a blind reaching out for comfort in her 
coming bereavement, which she felt that no human 
being could give. 

Erna had, at the suggestion of Frau Ehlert, given to 
Phillis as her gift a small cross ; and nothing could 
have pleased her so well. 

^^All my presents are beautiful, papa,^^ said she, 
one evening a few days after Christmas, but the 
dearest of them all is the cross that sister Erna gave 
me, because it makes me think of little Naso, to whom 
I owe so much. I must do something for missions, 
papa ; please give me a dollar. If no missionary had 
been sent to the heathen. Aunt Ehlert would not have 
had the beautiful stoiy of Naso, the heathen boy, 
to tell me, and I would not have been, as now, a child 
ofGod.^’ 

Herr Stark took a gold piece from his pocket book 
and gave it into the little thin hand which rested upon 
the coverlet. 

^^Oh, papa, dear papa, you are so good,” said 
the child, joyfully. will give this to Pastor 

Muller when he comes ; he will know the best way to 
send it.” 

Herr Stark knew better than did Phillis how much 


134 


ERNA STARK. 


he owed to missions, and his heart went out to those 
self-denying ones who had left home and kindred to 
go to preach to all nations, in obedience to the com- 
mand of God. 

Phillis,’^ said he, tenderly, I will set aside a 
portion of money every year for missions, and it shall 
not be a small sum.^’ 

The beautiful eyes of the child grew dim Avith joy- 
ful tears, and she kissed her father’s hand in silent 
gratitude. 

As the days passed on, the glimmering light of the 
little girl’s existence grew dimmer and dimmer; and 
even Fredrica lost hope, but could not look upon the 
child’s release from earth Avith the comforting faith 
which upheld the father and Erna. 

The time came all too soon. The gentle spirit was 
beyond the stars. 

A great comfort to them all was her peaceful, 
happy departure ; no pain, no struggle, but like a play- 
weary child upon its mother’s breast, she fell asleep 
Avith the present of Erna clasped in her arms, her last 
Avords being The cross, the dear cross ! ” 

Poor Fredrica, who had stood faithfully by her 
darling, fainted and was borne by pitying hands from 
the room ; and the same evening was in a nervous fever 


ERNA STARK. 


135 


which Dr. Wagner knew would surely follow the 
long and severe strain which she had endured. 

Her illness was a severe trial to Herr Stark ; his 
heart being filled with anxiety not only for her earthly 
life, but for the immortal soul of his beautiful wife. 

It was also a great trial to Erna, whose strength 
was almost exhausted by her vigils by the sick bed of 
her little sister ; but her prayers tor strength were 
answered, and her stepmother’s sick bed was as faith- 
fully and tenderly watched as was that of Phillis. 

Frau Ehlert was, as heretofore, the greatest of com- 
forters; and Erna, having her help and companion- 
ship, with that of her father, Pastor Muller and Anna, 
felt herself encompassed by blessings. 


CHAPTER IX. 


CLINGING TO THE CROSS. 

H err stark followed the remains of his beau- 
tiful and beloved little Phillis to their last 
resting place, and although his grief was great, he 
could think of her only as a redeemed one, blessed of 
her Father, at home in heaven for evermore. He 
knew that the love and care of the Saviour w^as far 
better than any that this poor earth could offer, and 
was comforted in knowing that she was beyond all 
sickness and sorrow. 

He could have remained at the vault in which she 
was laid for a long time, but the thought of his suffer- 
ing wife at home caused him to return to her as 
quickly as possible. 

In wild lamentation poor Fredrica bewailed the 
loss of lier only child. Herr Stark and Erna could 
offer no comfort, for she did not believe in the God 
who had loaned little Phillis to her, and in his own 
good time had recalled her to himself. Could she 

have had faith in God, in his divine wisdom, love 
136 


ERNA STARK. 


137 


and mercy, how easy would have been the task oi 
comforting her ; or, rather, how little would she have 
taxed their anxious hearts. But heaven was a sealed 
book to her ; she could not look beyond the grave. 

Days and weeks went by, and yet there was no light 
in her darkened soul. She was conscious of her sur- 
roundings, but for tlie most part lay silent, and 
suffered not the name of God to be mentioned in her 
hearing. She preferred to have Frau Ehlert with 
her, above any other person, excepting Herr Stark or 
Erna ; and as Frau Ehlert had comforted the daughter, 
so now she strove to comfort the mother, though 
without immediate results upon her spiritual life. 

Frau Ehlert was patient, and never lost faith that 
the poor mother would yet become reconciled to her 
loss as coming from a wise and loving Father. It 
came more natural for Frau Ehlert to serve others 
than herself, and her anxieties for her own family 
were laid in the hands of her Saviour. In return, she 
found peace and rest for her soul in doing the duty 
nearest to hand, that of trying to lead a poor wan- 
dering sinner home, following the example of her 
Bedeemer. 

She had plenty of assistance in the care of Frau 
Fredrica, yet the responsibility was upon her; for 


138 


ERNA STARK. 


Erna^s hands and heart were full in taking care of 
her father, who was seriously ill. The sadness of the 
years which were gone had broken his health, and 
the sorrow and anxieties of the past few weeks had 
been too much for his feeble strength. 

Erna was his faithful attendant. Leaning upon 
a strong arm, in those hours of darkness, as she 
accompanied her loved father to the edge of the val- 
ley of the shadow of death, she was his comforter 
in earthly things, as was his Saviour in those pertain- 
ing to eternal life. 

Pastor Muller frequently visited him; and on the 
evening of his death, after he had bidden him farewell 
and left the house, Herr Stark called his daughter to 
his bedside. 

The hand of the Lord is always ready to assist,^’ 
said he, in a feeble voice. You, my dear Erna, have 
proof of his loving kindness. I leave you without 
anxiety, for you know to whom to go in time of trou- 
ble. But my poor wife, my Fredrica, all my anxiety 
is for her. You, my Erna, will, I trust, be to her all 
the help you can ; and my earnest prayer is that my 
unhappy wife may fall at the foot of the cross with 
the cry of, ^ My Lord and my God.’ ” 

Erna could not speak. She gently sank upon her 


ERNA STARK. 


139 


knees at the side of the bed and her father laid his 
hand upon it in blessing. After a time the hand grew 
heavier, and she knew by its stillness that her father 
had left earth and had rejoined her mother and little 
Phillis in heaven. 

The young girl arose and looked about her ; heart 
and mind stilled by her great sorrow. She was but 
nineteen years of age, and in a manner alone in the 
world. Father and mother gone, no near relatives in 
the world, all existence so changed to her within one 
short year. In these very rooms, now so silent, once 
reigned mirth and revelry ; and the young compan- 
ions who had helped her make the hours pass with 
flying feet, were no longer there. 

The news of the death of Herr Stark went rapidly 
through the city, and there was no lack of attention 
and sympathy from every side ; proving to the sor- 
rowing daughter the estimation in which her father 
was held, 

Herr Stark had made no effort to cultivate new 
friendships, but to his old and tried friends he was 
very dear. For the poor and needy he had ever a 
sympathizing heart and willing hand ; and their grief 
over their loss was sincere. 

The sympathy of friends in this, the darkest hour 


140 


ERNA STARK. 


of her life, was very sweet to Erna ; but it was only 
Frau Ehlert and Pastor Muller that she wished to 
share her loneliness. Their society was an unspeaka- 
ble comfort to her. At her earnest solicitation, Frau 
Ehlert made arrangements that would enable her to 
remain with Erna, and all things seemed to favor it. 
Frau Ehlert’s eldest son had received a call to a church 
in a distant city, which he was about to decline on 
account of his mother, for whom he had promised to 
provide a home. Now that Erna so earnestly longed 
to have her society, she urged him to accept it. Her 
other sons were in good homes, and were rejoiced to 
know that she would be so well cared for in the 
elegant home of Fraulein Erna Stark. 

Frau Fredrica was provided by will with an ample 
yearly income, and now that little Phillis was not 
there to share it, Erna was sole heir to Herr Stark’s 
vast possessions. During his illness he had told her 
all it was necessary for her to know in regard to 
managing her estate ; and advised her in case of any 
perplexity to consult his old advocate and trusted 
friend of many years. The members of the firm of 
which her father had been senior partner were aston- 
ished at her knowledge of the business. 

Her mind being occupied, she was not free to brood 


ERNA STARK. 


141 


over her loneliness as she would otherwise have done ; 
and in time she recovered the strength of body and 
serenity of mind which had been so severely tried 
during the long sickness in the house. 

But had Erna forgotten Dr. Fortescue? Nearly a 
year had passed since he left, and she was looking for 
him daily, as a year was the limit which her father 
had earnestly advised her to require of him as a test. 
What would be the result of his visit? What 
answer could she give to the question which she was 
quite sure he would ask? Who could advise her? 
No one ! She must throw all her care upon her God; 
to him alone tell all her perplexities and sorrows. 

Erna was by nature reserved. It was difficult 
indeed for her to speak of her feelings ; wholly impos- 
sible to impart this secret of her heart to any friend, 
no matter how dear. She had mentioned the subject 
to her father once, and received his opinion, and from 
that time the subject was never mentioned between 
them. 

She loved Fortescue, and had a hope that he too had 
found joy in believing. If not, then she must give 
him up ; a great trial to her loving heart, but strength 
would be given her to do the right, and, if need be, 
to efface the image of Fortescue from her heart. 


142 


EENA 8TARK. 


In the meantime Fortescue was not without knowl- 
edge of the changes that had come to the Stark 
household ; although, true to her promise to her 
father, Erna had held no communication with him. 
She had seen a letter in Fredrica’s hand in the well- 
known writing of Dr. Fortescue, but had asked no 
questions and knew not the place of his sojourn; did 
not know but that he had forgotten her. Fredrica 
was much surprised at this a})parent indifference, and 
considered it a great want of gratitude in Erna to the 
one who had, at the risk of his life, saved that of 
little Phillis. At length the day came that Dr. 
Fortescue was to return, and hope and despondency 
reigned alternately in the heart of the young girl. 
In that year, what changes might have come into the 
life of the young man ! It might be that his heart 
had turned to his Saviour ; he too might have become 
a child of God. The dear and loving Elder Brother 
had died for all, and to him all things were possible. 
Might not Fortescue, like herself, have wearied of his 
wanderings and returned to his Father’s house ? Was 
it not in a fraction of time that a Saul was converted 
to a Paul ? 

No, Dr. Fortescue had not forgotten her. She was 
doubly a prize, now that wealth was at her command. 


EllNA STARK. 


143 


and her beauty more pre-eminent than before. She 
had a look of serenity and repose which almost 
daunted him, and he attributed it to the religion which 
he had prophesied would render her rigid in manner, 
and severe in speech. Through Fredrica, he had 
been kept apprised of all these changes ; had heard 
of every little incident which had transpired, and 
knew all as well as though he had never left the place. 

Erna received him kindly and cordially as she 
might a dear friend who had returned from a year’s 
sojourn; but betrayed no evidence of the conflict in 
her own heart, while she saw that he was deeply 
agitated. 

And is it thus we meet?” said he, extending his 
hand in greeting. You had sorrow, and I was not 
here to comfort you ; for my heart tells me that you 
love me, and longed for my presence.” 

Erna returned the pressure of liis hand, but made 
no reply. Much must be understood before she 
gave the promise he asked. 

Feeling herself unable to stand, she took a seat 
upon the sofa, while Fortescue leaned upon the chim- 
ney opposite to her and waited for her to speak. 

But for Erna it seemed for a time impossible to 
frame a question. She could not collect her thoughts. 


144 


EENA STARK. 


She felt that a conflict was to be waged between them, 
and prayed for strength. 

My Erna, said Dr. Fortescue at length, the 
year of absence has estranged you from me. I had 
hoped for a different reception from one who has 
promised to be my wife.’’ 

Erna strove for composure; she wished to appear less 
agitated, and to be able to reason the matter calmly 
with him. The whole matter rests with you, ” said 
she, at length. Have your opinions in regard to God 
and a hereafter undergone any change since I saw 
you ? ” 

A cold sneer crossed his face for an instant, and was 
gone. But Erna had seen it, and recognized it as the 
same which had sent such a feeling of terror to her 
heart the day of the sailing party. There was no 
need for words ; she had her answer. The look of sar- 
castic ridicule once seen could never be forgotten; 
and her mind was made up. 

Could my conscience allow me to follow the dic- 
tates of my heart, the answer might be different,” said 
she, ^^but it dare not be. We must part from each 
other ; we cannot walk the same pathway in life.” 

You speak in riddles, Fraulein Erna ; how am I 
to understand you? You are your own mistress; no 


ERNA STARK. 


145 


one can have a ri^ht to influence you. Have you 
ceased to care for me ? 

It was impossible for Erna to answer for a moment. 
His words only served to remind her of her loss, and 
of her father’s opposition to the handsome and dis- 
tinguished looking young man whose outward appear- 
ance was, in ]iis experienced judgment, so at variance 
with heart and mind. 

This is not the question that is to separate us,” 
answered she, faintly ; if you could tell me, truth- 
fully, that you are a believer, that you look to the 
Saviour for deliverance from your sins, then you have 
the place next to him in my heart.” 

He looked at her with perfect astonishment upon 
his features. It was the first time in his life that any 
one had spoken directly to him upon the subject. 
Were the ludicrous speeches in regard to Erna’s relig- 
ion which Fredrica had given in her letters then 
really true ? 

Poor girl ! ” said he, softly. I know you have 
had sorrow, but I did not suppose it wmuld have such 
an effect upon you as to influence you to put faith in 
the foolish fable of the Nazarene, believed only by 
weak-minded women and children. I wish I had 

returned earlier, and by my companionship preserved 
K 


146 


ERNA STARK. 


you from such errors. If there be a God, you must 
hate him instead of loving him, when he has brought 
so much trouble upon a house which a short time 
ago was so full of pleasure and happiness. Come, 
be my wife. With me you will forget all this non- 
sense.^^ 

Erna loved this man, but the time had come when 
she must decide between her God and him ; and her 
heart grew faint with a sick longing for the separation 
to be over. 

It is impossible,’^ said she at length, her lips pale 
from her emotion. Our paths in life diverge ; even 
companionship between us must cease.” 

Is not love the bond which unites us,” said For- 
tescue, ^^and does not true love endure forever? If 
your love for me is as sincere as mine for you, you 
would not give me up for that reason ; knowing, as 
you do, that I should not interfere with your belief. 
You are welcome to believe all the fables you please; 
it will not trouble me in the least.” 

But I could never be happy with one who denies 
his Saviour,” said Erna. 

Then you do not love me, and any more words 
are useless,” said Fortescue, the color receding from 
his face. If you cared for me, the mummery of 


EPwXA STARK. 


147 


preachers, and the imbecile jargon of so called Chris- 
tians, would not have any effect upon you/^ 

^^You have said enough,^^ said Erna, in a low 
voice. Let this torment cease. Every word you 
speak widens the gulf between us. Let it not become 
so wide and deep that I dare not allow myself to 
think of you.^^ 

She arose, and drawing aside the portierre which 
separated the parlor from the library, she looked back 
for a moment upon the one whom she had so loved, 
and who seemed almost petrified by her words. 

^^Eareweiy* said she, faintly, I cannot unite my- 
self to an unbeliever. I cannot forsake my Saviour 
for any earthly love. That you may seek the way that 
leads to eternal peace will be my prayer always.^^ 

She felt her strength failing, and dropping the por- 
tierre she sank upon the sofa in the library, shutting Dr. 
Eortescue from view; not, however, shutting out his 
words, which tortured her gentle heart as perhaps 
nothing else could have done, yet never for a moment 
making her waver in her determination. 

Farewell, Erna,^^ he cried, in tones of anger and 
despair. In separating from you I separate from all 
good that your love has awakened in me. I had the 
will and the power to make you happy, and you 


148 


ERNA STARK. 


would have made of me a good man, if not one that 
was pious. In your society I was learning to love 
goodness for its own sake. You are pushing me out 
among the powers of darkness from which I was try- 
ing to escape ; and if there be a place of torment and 
I am consigned to it, you may consider yourself 
responsible.^^ 

While the wretched man was speaking, he was 
moving toward the outer door, but paused, hoping 
that Erna would make her appearance. The portierre 
remained closed, and there came no response from 
within. 

Dr. Fortescue remained a moment in thought. He 
wished to be quite sure that all was ended between 
them. His glance rested upon the luxurious appoint- 
ments of the room ; he reflected upon the vast wealth 
of Herr Stark, which was now Erna’s, and he realized 
what he had lost in losing her. Had he tried every 
inducement to retain her? Was there no plea he 
could offer? He must make one more trial. He 
had never yet been opposed in his wishes; he had 
been flattered and courted by every one, and in society 
his highest wish was respected. He would see her 
again and plead his cause anew. 

But Erna had not fought the battle single-handed 


ERNA STARK. 


149 


and Avith her own weapons. She bad a mighty helper, 
who stretched his protecting hand over her. She was 
safe within the shadow of the Almighty. 

She called to mind the words of Scripture : Be ye 
not unequally yoked together with unbelievers; for 
Avhat fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteous- 
ness, and what communion hath light with darkness? 
And what concord hath Christ with Belial ? or Avhat 
part hath he that believeth with an infidel ? 

Dr. Fortescue parted the portierre and glanced in. 
The soft texture of the carpet gave no token of his 
footfall. Erna knelt beneath the portrait of her 
father, and in her arms Avas the cross Avhich she had 
taken from the lifeless arms of her little sister Phillis. 
In the feeling of her own Aveakness, she had reached 
out for earthly comfort Avhile asking God to deli\^er 
her from temptation ; and her prayer Avas granted. 

Fortescue felt that she Avas lost to him. He left the 
room, resolved to flee from the city. But where? 
He had obtained a temporary position in a chemical 
laboratory in Hamburg, merely as a pretense of busi- 
ness until Erna should be his wife ; but all this was 
past and gone, and he saw that nothing remained to 
him but to begin the world aneAV. 


CHAPTER X. 


PASTOE Muller’s counsel. 

T hus the years passed away, and Erna knew 
nothing of Dr. Fortescue, and knew not the 
place of his sojourn. After the visit he had paid her, 
he departed as suddenly as he had come, and none in 
the city troubled themselves about him in any way. 
The place he had once filled in society was occupied 
by a worthier man, and in no way was he missed ; his 
very existence being in a manner forgotten, as was 
that of other summer guests who visited the Baths 
for a season and then gave place to others. 

The harbor town had increased greatly, owing to 
the growing popularity of the Baths; and for the 
crowds of people, who came from every quarter, 
accommodations had to be provided. Avenues of 
cottages had sprung up — mushroom like — along the 
beach, and a traveler upon the sea who had not seen 
it for several years scarcely would have recognized it. 
But in the city itself there was but little change. 

The old, gray dwellings still kept their air of stately 
150 


EENA STAEK. 


151 


elegance, and the wide, clean streets their wonted 
quietude, except during ‘^the season,^^ when they were 
gay with handsome equipages and elegant costumes. 

There was one new building, however, that won 
much admiration for its beauty, it being considered a 
masterpiece of architecture. That building was the 
Stark Memorial Church, erected by Erna in memory 
of her father. Its tall, slender spire reminded her 
and others of him who, through great tribulation, had 
washed his robes and made them white in the blood 
of the Lamb. 

Erna had seen much sorrow and much happiness 
in the beautiful home of which she was sole mistress, 
and was leading a useful and busy life. The severe 
fever from which Fredrica had suffered after the death 
of Phillis had left her weak in body and mind ; she 
took no interest in anything, and had apparently no 
object in life. 

The helplessness and dependency of her stepmother 
had filled Erna’s heart and hands in the first years of 
her bereavement, and employment had been the best 
tonic for her. Through others, help had come to her, 
as well in sorrow as in joy, and she was comparatively 
happy in the steadfast path of duty. 

Every plan had been taken to arouse Fredrica from 


152 


ERNA STARK. 


her state of apathy, but in vain. She loved only to 
sit in a darkened room and brood over her sorrows, 
undisturbed by contact with the outside world. 

Frau Pastor Ehlert was not a member of the Stark 
household for a great while, owing to the circumstance 
that her eldest son accepted a call to become pastor 
of the church built by Erna, and his mother was to 
preside over the parsonage home. 

But the families were near, and were very intimate 
and helpful toward each other. Erna appeared only 
to value her money for the good it did others. She 
had assumed the expense of a college education for 
the youngest son, who was to study for the ministry, 
and whose vacations Avere passed equally between the 
parsonage and the home of Fraulein Erna Stark. 

In Frau Ehlert’s place, as companion to Frau 
Fredrica, Erna had secured the services of Clara 
Muller, a niece of her good old pastor, and a cheerful, 
bright girl, whose spirits were not the least affected 
by the despondency of Fredrica, and whose influence 
was beneficial to the world-weary Avoman. Through 
her cheery persistence, the AAundoAvs Avere gradually 
opened, to allow the sunshine and fresh air to enter ; 
floAvers were placed in the broad sills, and a cheery 
fire upon the broad hearth took the place of the 


ERNA STARK. 


153 


porcelain oven, which Fredrica had insisted upon 
retaining in her apartment during the winter. And 
all was done in such a way that Fredrica, before she 
was aware of it, was enjoying the change she could 
not prevent. 

This assistance left Erna more time for outside 
work, and Pastor Ehlert and Pastor Muller gave her 
advice as to the best way to aid the poor and needy; 
Erna giving with a free hand when the object was 
pointed out. 

In the world of society, where she had once been a 
brilliant light, her name was no more heard, except 
in good-natured ridicule as a pietist. But this did 
not disturb Erna in the least ; all creatures in God’s 
universe were dear to her, and for his sake she helped 
and comforted them. She established a ^^Home” 
and school for destitute children, with grounds about 
it, where they could romp and play, and where vege- 
tables and fruit could be cultivated by the pupils for 
the use of the Home. She organized a society of 
trained nurses, whose work was to visit the sick and 
destitute, and aid them in every way, her money pro- 
viding all the needed assistance, as well as a home 
for the nurses in their seasons of freedom from 
duty. 


154 


ERNA STARK. 


In this way the time passed on; and one bright 
afternoon, in late autumn, just ten years after Erna 
had returned from the pension, she was superintending 
the arrangement of the table in the library for the 
four o’clock coffee. She was now past twenty-eight ; 
but in her matured beauty she was far more attractive 
than when she took part in the tableaux, as the Prin- 
cess Leonore to the Tasso of Dr. Fortescue. 

I expect seven guests,” said she, turning to one 
of the maids; ^^see that everything is upon the table 
before it is ready to be served, that there may be no 
confusion.” 

Old Anna and Heinrich had followed Herr Stark 
to the heavenly home, and it was a younger set of 
servants that now took their place in the old home. 

^^Now bring the cakes and other things, but not 
the coffee until the Herr Pastor Muller is here; and 
tell Conrad to be on hand to assist him from the 
carriage, and Lizette to be ready to help the ladies 
with their toilettes, should they need assistance.” 

That afternoon was the first time since her illness 
that Frau Fredrica could be prevailed upon to make 
her appearance in company. When the guests arrived, 
she came to the table with Clara Muller; and although 
she understood the conversation, she took no part in 


ERNA STARK. 


155 


it, and showed no disposition to be conversed with. 
So the guests respected her evident wishes. 

Young Pastor Ehlert accompanied the aged Pastor 
Muller, glad always of any opportunity which would 
place him in the society of Erna, whom he, as well 
as Frau Ehlert, looked upon as the noblest among 
women, and whom he hoped to win as his wife. 

Acting upon the advice of Dr. Wagner, Erna was 
about to take Frau Fredrica to Switzerland, to remain 
at least a year, hoping thus to benefit her health ; and 
the main motive of this little entertainment was to 
arrange for the prosperity of the Children’s Home 
and sisterhood of nurses while she should be absent. 

She appointed from among her guests a treasurer, 
in whose hands she placed a sum of money for the 
use of the Home and sisterhood ; appointed F rau 
Pastor Muller to provide the clothing for the little 
ones, and jNIajor von Lenzen, a retired veteran, to 
care for the harvesting of the winter grain, fruit, and 
vegetables of the school land, and to see to the pro- 
viding of the winter’s fuel. 

^^My horses are at your service, dear friend, for 
any use you wish to make of them,” concluded she, 
and I will be glad to have them used during my 
absence.” 


156 


ERNA STARK. 


hope to see you back in a year, at least, 
remarked Frau Ehlert. 

^^You will not be more pleased to see me than I 
shall be to return,^^ said Erna. Yet I long to visit 
Switzerland; I had some pleasant years there.’^ 

expect to go to Berlin to-morrow,’^ remarked 
young Pastor Ehlert. Could I be of any service to 
you while there? I shall be there when you arrive.^’ 
^^Yes; you will please give my kindest greetings 
to your brother Eric, who is to meet us at the station, 
if possible.” 

“1 am well acquainted with Berlin,” continued the 
young pastor, ^^and will secure a pleasant stopping 
place for you, if you will give me permission.” 

You are very kind, and I will gladly accept your 
offer. Mamma and I will remain for several days, 
and we have but little acquaintance with Berlin.’* 

The pastor mentioned a quiet hotel, where he would 
secure comfortable rooms for them ; and Major von 
Lenzen agreed with him that it was indeed a home in 
everything that tended to the comfort of its guests. 
The company rose from the table, and shortly after 
bade good-bye to their hostess and left, with the 
exception of Pastor Muller, whom Erna had requested 
to remain. 


ERNA STARK. 


157 


The coffee table had been removed from the library, 
and Frau Fredrica had returned to her room, accom- 
panied by Clara Muller. 

Erna had some further arrangements to make, 
upon which she wished to ask the old pastor^s advice, 
and they drew chairs to the heartli, upon which blazed 
a bright fire. Very comfortable and cheerful was 
the beautiful apartment at that hour, the ruddy beams 
casting a rosy glow upon the rich frames of the 
pictures and the marble busts and statuettes about 
the room. It was the same handsome apartment into 
which Dr. Fortescue had glanced nine years before, 
and was not changed in any particular since that 
time. A small table stood under the portrait of Herr 
Stark, and a Bible lay upon it which had belonged to 
Phillis. This room had been the favorite one of 
Herr Stark, and Erna used it for a sitting room, 
receiving her guests there. 

This is such a cool day that a fire is really agree- 
able,^^ said she, as Pastor Muller took the seat she 
placed for him. 

always liked a bright, open fire,^’ replied the 
old man, contentedly. I think aged people are like 
children in that respect.’’ 

I have asked you to remain, dear fatherly friend,” 


158 


ERNA STARK. 


said she. I wish to tell you of something that gives 
me anxiety.^^ 

^^You allude to the health of your Frau mother/’ 
replied he. Certainly she grows feebler; I scarcely 
think she will be with you very long.” 

“I feel much more reconciled to her leaving me 
now than I would have felt a few years ago. In 
early life she would not listen to a word relating to a 
hereafter; but Frau Ehlert talked much to her, and 
mamma at length began to listen to the simple stories 
which had so comforted little Phillis. She looks 
forward to a meeting with Phillis, with the glad 
longing of a child; and I cannot but feel that she 
will be accepted of the Father. But, dear Herr 
Pastor, dare we hope that she who rejected him in 
her strength of matured intellect will be accepted of 
him now that she has turned to him in her childish 
weakness ? ” 

Our Saviour has made no conditions. ^ Him that 
cometh to me I will in nowise cast out.’ ” 

Tears of joy rushed to Erna’s eyes, and she clasped 
the hand of Pastor Muller in both hers. 

‘^You have always words of comfort, dear Herr 
Pastor,” said she. ^^Poor mamma has surely come 
to him, for she trusts him with the same childish faith 


ERNA STARK. 


159 


that characterized her child. Since Clara came, she 
has asked for the stories of Christ and his love to be 
read to her from the Bible, and they seem to comfort 
her.^^ 

^^The power of the gospel is wonderful,’^ replied 
the old pastor. I think you have every cause to 
hope lor your mother.’^ 

Erna arose and placed several sticks upon the 
smouldering fire, and resumed her seat. 

I wish I could be assured of the eternal happiness 
of some others of my loved ones, — one in particular, 
who has been very dear to me.’’ 

A world of sorrow, and it seemed regret, came into 
her tone, and the old pastor glanced inquiringly upon 
her. Her eyes were cast down, but her lips trembled, 
as though tears were nigh. 

He had known her from a child, and thought he 
knew every circumstance of her life, yet here was a 
problem which he could not solve. Years before, he 
had heard rumors of an attachment between the beau- 
tiful daughter of Herr Ludwig Stark and the young 
foreign doctor, but supposed there was no truth in 
the rumor. 

There was silence between them for some time, each 
being occupied with thoughts which the conversation 


160 


EPwNA STARK. 


suggested. The pastor had something upon his mind 
which he wished to mention to Erna, yet felt a deli- 
cacy in doing so. 

I have often wished to ask you, F raulein Erna, 
if the resolution you made several years ago is yet in 
your mind?’^ 

You allude to my wish to become a member of 
the band of deaconessess in our denomination. Yes ; 
should my mother be taken from me, I should have 
no family ties to bind me* here, and would make my 
home among them.^’ 

You may think it strange, my dear young friend, 
that I, your pastor, should discountenance such a step, 
but I do, and cannot refrain from giving you my 
candid opinion in regard to it. The work which you 
have now on hand has, by God’s blessing, prospered, 
and I do not think it would be wise to abandon it 
when there are so few that are capable of managing 
it, and so many capable of filling the position of 
deaconess!” 

But, my deal* pastor, in my opinion, no human 
being is indispensable ; if it be the work of God, my 
coming or going could make no difference. My 
money would remain here to be devoted to the cause.” 

Your money, Erna, is a help not to be despised, 


ERNA STARK. 


161 


and it will be used to better advantage in the work 
of the Lord where the motive power is love and 
interesl.. You should not leave here. The Lord will 
raise up others to fill the place of deaconess ; he can 
also lay obstacles in your path, as he has done for 
years in the illness of your mother, and her subse- 
quent weakness of mind and dependence upon you.’^ 
But he bids us labor in his vineyard.^^ 

^^His calls for laborers in his vineyard are not to 
those whose hands are already full, but to those who 
are standing idle. Your work is already in hand; 
you would not be doing right to leave it.’^ 

The advice of her honored pastor came to Erna 
like a revelation. She had not considered the matter 
at all in that light, and she resolved to give it her 
earnest consideration. In the meantime she had 
another subject upon her mind, which she wished to 
impart to him, and, if possible, gain aid and comfort 
from his opinion. 

There is another position which I am quite sure 
no one could fill better than yourself,^’ continued the 
old pastor; ^^you are needed as a helpmeet to a young 
pastor, Fraulein Erna. Will you not consider it 
favorably ? Hermann Ehlert wishes to make you his 
wife.^^ 

L 


162 


EKNA STAKK. 


Yes, I know it ; but it cannot be/’ replied she, 
sadly. 

^^No one can do otherwise than appreciate the 
noble qualities of that young man,” continued the 
pastor ; he is doing a noble work in this community, 
but he labors single-handed.” 

He will have no difficulty in finding a helpmeet 
more suitable than I. You forget that I am nearly 
thirty years of age, and my care and anxiety make 
me feel years older. Hermann Ehlert appears too 
youthful for me; he must seek a younger woman, 
whose mind is not set upon being a deaconess,” con- 
tinued she, with a smile. 

But there are two sides to every question, Erna. 
I really think that duty points you to become mistress 
of the parsonage. You are constituted to be the 
centre of a happy home circle ; and as an old friend 
of your father, as well as of yourself, I long to see 
you settled in life. Have I taken too much upon 
myself to thus speak so plainly to you ? ” 

^^How can you ask?” questioned Erna, looking 
upon him with the love and confidence she would 
have shown her father. Have I not known you all 
my life and always found you a friend ? ” 

Your friend now and always,” was the reply. 


ERNA STARK. 


163 


Dear Herr Pastor/^ said she, in a voice trembling 
with emotion, I wish to tell you of something which 
has troubled me for several years ; and in order to do 
so, I must go back to my first coming home from the 
pension in Switzerland.’’ 

I am ready to listen to all you have to say, my 
child,” replied the old pastor, somewhat wonderingly. 

Erna commenced her story from the first evening 
of her entrance into society and meeting with Dr. 
Fortescue, and spoke of their attachment to each 
other, of her father’s opposition, of his absence for a 
year, and his return to claim her as his wife. 

can never forget his angry and despairing 
words,” said she, in conclusion. ^^For nine years 
they have been a bitter remembrance to me. I fear, 
if he has sunk so deep in sin that it will be impossible 
to save him, that the guilt will, as he said, rest upon 
me. I might have saved him by my love.” 

Suppose you erred there, Erna. God saw your 
heart, and knew you did what you considered right.” 

^^That is my comfort for myself,” replied the 
weeping girl, ^^but it does not help Dr. Fortescue; 
for in Corinthians we are told : ^ If a Tvoman hath 
a husband that believeth not, and he be pleased to 
dwell with her, let her leave him not: For the unbe- 


]64 


ERNA STARK. 


lieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the 
unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband ’ I 
had looked upon Dr. Fortescue as my future husband; 
I loved him ; it was a hard struggle to give him up, 
yet I thought at that time that I must do so for my 
belief^s sake. But his parting words make me fear 
that I have erred in not trying to win a soul for 
heaven.^^ 

^^Dear Erna,’^ replied the pastor, serenely, ^4n this 
case you have wholly set aside the calm judgment 
that has always characterized you. You were not the 
young man’s wife. You were not even promised to 
him, for that depended upon your father’s sanction, 
which was not given. Your father did not wish you 
to become the wife of Dr. Fortescue, and you may be 
assured he had other reasons besides the main one of 
unbelief. He evidently had no good opinion of him 
as a man, and judged him to be of a nature that could 
not be influenced by your goodness. He wished you 
to remain free, and that Dr. Fortescue should leave 
here for a time, well knowing that you would see 
matters in their true light when away from his influ- 
ence. You unjustly accuse yourself of not trying to 
help him. Would your giving up your faith for his 
sake have been of advantage to him? Would he not 


EENA STAEK. 


165 


have esteemed it lightly had you married him, know- 
ing him to be a scotfer of sacred things ? I ask you, 
Erna, can you, dare you, think otherwise than that 
you did right ? 

But I might, through my godly life, have won 
him to Christ.” 

Only with God is that possible.” 

I know that well, yet he often uses us as instru- 
ments in the furtherance of his work, and I might, 
by my love and patience, have won the poor, erring 
man to peace and happiness.” 

You, Erna, — you could have done all this?” 

No, not I, but the Lord through me,” was the 
subdued answer. 

Is the arm of the Lord shortened ? Does he need 
our poor help ? Could he not do all this without the 
help of Erna Stark ? ” 

The words of the old pastor were convincing ; she 
raised her head and looked at him, with tears of joy 
in her eyes. 

And let me ask you,” continued he, are your 
hands tied because he is far from you ? Are not our 
prayers carried upon wings of love to his throne ? Il 
has always been a comfort to me to believe that a 
child of many prayers cannot be lost.” 


166 


ERNA STARK. 


Erna made no reply ; her tears fell softly from her 
downcast eyes. 

He continued : You have every evidence that in 
obeying your earthly father, you have w^on the favor 
of God. He has richly blessed you, and rewarded 
your work a hundredfold. Think of the love be- 
stowed upon you by the poor and afflicted whom you 
have helped ! Many, very many, bless you for the 
good you have done.’^ 

I am indeed blessed in being allow^ed to work in 
his vineyard, and will remain here and do all that my 
hands find to do.^^ 

^^Amen,’’ responded Pastor Muller, heartily, as he 
arose to go. But to Hermann, my poor young 
friend, have I then no encouraging wwd to take? *’ 
He wdll easily find a helpmeet more suitable. I 
know one who is in every way worthy, and who 
would be highly esteemed in his charge as the wife 
of their pastor.’^ 

Oh, Erna, your heart is truly untouched, if you 
can thus plan for another. Would you object to 
telling me the name of the young lady ? ” 

Not at all,’’ smiled Erna ; it is Eraulein Clara 
Muller. She would be in every way suitable for a 
minister’s wife as she is for a minister’s niece.” 


ERNA STARK. 


167 


That will be as God wills/^ replied her old friend, 
looking somewhat bewildered over the new thought 
suggested to him, as he bade her good-bye. 

The long talk with Pastor Muller had done Erna 
much good; she felt that a great burden had been 
rolled from her heart, and she could look into the 
future with hope and serenity. 


CHAPTEE XI. 


AN UNEXPECTED MEETING. 

E RNA, her mother, Clara Muller, a maidserv- 
ant, and a manservant reached Berlin safely. 
They were met at the railway station by the Ehlert 
brothers, who conducted them to the hotel, and Ema 
was charmed with the comfortable accommodations 
provided for them. 

Erna was pleased also to see that Eric had grown 
so tall and so handsome, and he was delighted to see 
his benefactress, whom he called Aunt Erna,^’ at her 
earnest desire. She was accustomed to that name^ the 
children of the Home and school being instructed 
to give her this appellation ; and in time the children 
of her friends and acquaintances did the same, at 
which she was much pleased. 

She felt some natural embarrassment in meeting 
the young pastor, but his easy and natural manner 
convinced her that good Pastor Muller had not 
imparted to him the conversation which concerned 

him, and she soon regained her equanimity. She 
168 


ERNA STARK. 


169 


truly enjoyed the visit to Berlin, having for years led 
such a secluded and monotonous life, on account of 
the illness of her mother. 

At length the morning came when they were to 
leave Berlin to continue their journey, and the Ehlerts 
had arranged to meet her at the railway station and 
see that all was arranged for her comfort during the 
journey. 

Fredrica, being unaccustomed to rise early, refused 
to leave her bed, was restless, and dissatisfied at being 
disturbed, and for a time was not willing to be dressed. 
At length, after many difficulties and hindrances, they 
were on their way. Although Erna was quite sure 
that they would not reach the station in time, yet the 
driver of the drosky being liberally paid for driving 
faster than usual, to her great relief they found the 
train still there, and the Ehlert brothers watching for 
them. 

In haste they were helped from the drosky and 
into the first-class carriage of the train, then the 
brothers hastened to the platform to bid her good-bye 
at the window. When they reached it, they found 
Fraulein Erna gazing with pale face and earnest eyes 
upon a man sitting upon a bench outside the depot, 
and apparently quite unconscious of her surroundings. 


170 


EKNA STARK. 


He was, or had been, a fine-looking man, and was 
well clothed ; but his features were pale and very 
much emaciated, while his sunken eyes showed that 
he was very ill. 

Aunt Erna, what is the matter ? inquired Eric, 
astonished at the look of almost terror on the face of 
Fraulein Stark. 

^^Are you ill?’^ inquired the young pastor, anx- 
iously. 

She could not speak, — could scarcely breathe. And 
at that moment one of the officials came and closed 
the door of the car, the train being about to start, 

I know him,^’ gasped she, pointing to the stranger. 

He is an old friend, — is dear to me ; I yet have a 
warm interest in him ; take this purse and do the best 
you can for him/’ The train started out, and the 
young men looked after it in dumb bewilderment. 

Do you understand this ? ” at length said the 
young pastor. 

“ It is a mystery to me ; as to you,” was the reply 
of Eric. 

This miserable-looking wreck and the beautiful 
Fraulein Erna Stark ! There certainly is some error; 
she has made a mistake in the man, and thinks it is 
some one she has known.” 


ERNA STARK. 


171 


“ She is very benevolent, and takes great care of 
the poor and sick,^^ responded the younger brother. 
^‘No doubt this is some one who has been in her 
hospital.’^ 

No ; her words and manner do not lead to that 
conclusion. Did you see how pale she was, and how 
her hand trembled when she handed me this purse? 
I thought she would faint; there is some mystery 
about this.” Both turned to the bench, where sat the 
wretched-looking stranger, his head resting upon his 
hand. Before they reached him, one of the officials 
came from within and shook him roughly by the 
shoulder. 

See here, old fellow, two hours are long enough for 
you to sit here waiting for a ticket to Frankfort to 
drop from the clouds. You had better move along. 
He says he had a ticket and lost it,” continued he, 
turning to the young men ; “ but we hear that story 
too often to put much faith in it.” 

The stranger opened his dark, sad eyes and looked 
about him, but gave no other sign of having heard 
the command. 

Who is he ? ” inquired the young pastor, 
have not the least idea,” was the reply. ^^All 
I know of him is that he says he had a ticket, 


172 


ERXA STARK. 


first class, and missed it while waiting for the 
train.” 

Poor creature ! ” remarked Eric, compassionately. 

I suppose he is drunk,” remarked the official. 

^^No, I think not,” responded the pastor ; but he 
looks sick, very sick. I think it well that he lost 
his ticket ; he might have died on the way.” 

I would rather he would be drunk than sick,” 
responded the official, in a vexed tone, for he could 
move along when he got sober, whereas, if he is sick, 
we will have the bother of getting him to a hospital.” 

^^We will take charge of him,^* responded Her- 
mann, giving the man a fee to have a carriage sent. 

During this colloquy, the train containing Erna 
was speeding along, and she was gazing from the 
window, her heart filled with sorrow and longing, as 
every moment bore her farther from Berlin. 

Only the eyes of love could have rendered possible 
the recognition of this wretched-looking creature, once 
the aristocratic and elegant-looking Dr. Fortescue, 
who only ten years before won the admiration of all 
in her native city. Her heart ached for the poor 
outcast, and her tender conscience arraigned her as 
being responsible. 

For the first time during the long sickness of her 


ERNA STARK. 


173 


stepmother, she felt the care of her a burden and 
restraint, and gladly, for a time, would have laid it 
down to go to the assistance of Fortescue, had not 
duty in its strictest sense been her guiding star. 

She gave to the objects which flew past her no 
thought, her gaze from the car window being far in 
the past. She was again a happy girl in her fathers 
house ; all was gayety and pleasure ; the poor, faded 
flower on the seat beside her was then in its wonderful 
beauty; and Dr. Fortescue was there in all the pride 
of his manly prime. Erna could have wept at these 
changes; instead, she lifted up her heart in prayer 
that God would change his heart and bring him safely 
into the fold. Was he seeking his Father’s face? 
Perhaps even now he was a child of God, weary of 
the world, and longing for rest. 

Erna’s dark eyes were dim with tears as these 
thoughts surged through her mind, now sad, now 
hopeful. For ten long years she had prayed to see 
him happy in believing; yet, perhaps, his heart re- 
mained unchanged. She could not help him even by 
a word, being chained to this poor nervous wreck, 
wherein the torch of life feebly glimmered, but whom 
she had promised her father to care for to the best of 
her ability. 


174 


ERNA STARK. 


These thoughts occupied her mind for the most part 
during the long journey through the northern, middle, 
and southern part of Germany, until they reached 
Montreaux. She said nothing of them to her fellow- 
travelers, but grew sadder and paler each day. 

^‘1 am glad we have reached a stopping place, 
Fraulein Erna,’^ remarked Clara Muller ; “ I believe 
if the journey had continued much longer you would 
have been ill.^^ 

Erna was also glad to have a settled place, and lost 
no time in securing a cottage near the shore of the 
lake, in which Fredrica could be quiet and secluded, 
while she herself strove to be contented and patient, 
and hoped to hear news from Eric Ehlert. 

At length a letter came, but gave very little com- 
fort. Eric wrote that Hermann and himself had 
taken tlie sick stranger to a hospital, where he was 
receiving every attention, but was very ill, and, at 
time of writing, unconscious. From papers found 
upon him, it was ascertained that his name was Dr. 
Fortescue Stark, that he was afflicted with lung 
trouble, and there was no hope of his recovery. 

Erna’s first impulse was to write to Pastor Muller 
and ask him to go to Berlin and see after the spiritual 
welfare of poor Fortescue when he should become' 


ERNA STARK. 


■i75 

conscious; but she scarcely deemed it just to request 
one of his age to make such a journey, and so reflected 
upon some other plan. She comforted herself with 
the words with which he had once comforted her, — 
that prayers could be offered for him as effectively 
there as in Berlin ; and, believing this, her heart grew 
serene and peaceful. 

A high mountain formed a background to the cot- 
tage ; a large garden lay in front filled with lovely 
flowers, filling the air with fragrance ; and the lake 
in calm beauty was within sight. It was a beautiful 
and romantic spot ; yet Fredrica gained but little 
strength in the pure mountain air. As she was too 
weak to walk, the physician recommended a rolling 
chair, and Erna went to Montreaux to order it. 

The little visit had refreshed Erna, and when she 
reached the road which led to the cottage, she halted 
to take a view of the lovely scenery, — the snow- 
capped mountains, the beautiful lake, the foliage 
glowing with the beams of the setting sun. 

She passed on, and had reached the gate which led 
to the garden, when beside it she saw a little girl, 
about eigut years of age, with beautiful large dark 
eyes, and a wealth of black hair, simply braided in 
two long strands. In her arms was a snow^-white 


176 


ERNA STARK. 


lamb, while the mother sheep stood by, patiently 
gazing at her offspring. The child w^as neatly, but 
plainly clothed, and had placed a wreath of wild 
flowers upon her head. The lamb and its mother 
were gayly decked with the same beautiful ornaments, 
the scarlet of their petals forming a beautiful contrast 
to the snow-white fleece. 

It was a subject worthy of an artist, and'Erna 
longed to take a sketch, as a remembrance of that 
lovely evening. She had vie^v^ed the child from a 
distance, and then advanced and spoke to her. The 
little one did not remove from her place, but glanced 
upward, without the least embarrassment, into the 
face of the strange lady. 

Erna saw at a glance that she did not in the least 
resemble other children in the rural neighborhood, 
and her heart thrilled at the expression in the soft, 
beautiful eyes. 

^^How foolish I am,’’ thought she, ^Hhat I can 
never see a pair of large dark eyes without thinking 
of him who so occupies my mind. Here, hundreds 
of miles from the spot where he lies in loneliness and 
sickness, has my heart thrilled at the glance of a pair 
of eyes.” 

She stepped forward, and, clasping the hand of the 



Erna Stark 


Page 176 






EENA STAEK. 


177 


child, asked her in German who she was. The little 
one smiled and shook her head ; she did not under- 
stand. 

Erna then addressed her in French and found she 
had guessed the child’s nationality rightly. 

‘^My name is Leila, my lamb’s name is Nini, and 
its mother’s name is Mimi.” 

Where do you live, my little one?” 

There in the valley ; the path running along the 
brook leads to our cottage, where I live with my 
grandmother.” 

^^Did you make these beautiful wreaths?” inquired 
Erna, for the sake of continuing the conversation and 
considering the beautiful eyes. 

Yes, lady, I made them. I make fresh ones every 
day ; grandma says it is the only thing I can do. I 
cannot read and write, like the other children in the 
neighborhood; but it is not my fault, lady; it is 
really not.” 

‘^Why do you not go to school? You are old 
enough.” 

Grandma cannot send me to school; she has no 
money.” 

‘‘Would you be glad to learn, Leila?” 

“ Indeed I would ; but I cannot go to school.” 

M 


178 


ERNA STARK. 


I will teach you, and it shall not cost you any- 
thing.” 

^‘'No money? no money?” repeated the child, in- 
credulously. ^‘1 will bring you a wreath of fresh 
flowers every day, lady.” 

I shall consider myself well paid, and it is good 
in you to think of it. I will go and see your grand- 
mother to-morrow, and we will see what can be done.” 

am to learn to read and write,” cried Leila, 
joyously, as she sprang up and clasped the sheep 
about the neck. ^^Oh, Mimi and Nini, are you not 
glad?” 

She hastened home to tell her grandma the good 
news, the sheep following with short, quick springs, 
and Erna^s gaze following them. 

The resemblance is wonderful,” thought she, 
dreamily, as they disappeared from sight. And 
opening the gate, she too disappeared inside the 
cottage. 

The next morning, Erna visited the cottage of the 
grandmother, who was pleased that Leila had the 
opportunity of learning, and it was agreed that she 
should come for two hours every morning. 

It was a difficult task at first for Leila to apply 
herself to study, but she was bright and intelligent 


ERNA STARK. 


179 


and really anxious to learn. Besides, Erna was a 
charming teacher, and the lessons were always full of 
interest, for Erna loved all children, and this one she 
learned to love, as time passed on, above all others. 

No mountain was too steep for Leila to ascend in 
search of rare flowers for Erna, and each morning 
lovely bouquets of edelweis, Alpen roses, and other 
sweet flowers, testified the gratitude of the child. She 
never came without a bouquet of some kind. 

It soon became the delight of Erna to watch for 
the sweet, intelligent child, whose society was so 
cheering as to relieve the impatience incident to the 
long waiting for news from Berlin. 

When the lessons were over, and Fredrica did not 
need the society of Erna, they took delightful walks 
in the shady valleys and by the lake, and Erna 
learned to love mountain climbing for the pleasure 
of accompanying Leila. 

In the meantime she had received a letter from 
Eric, saying that, after consciousness returned to Dr. 
Fortescue, he seemed anxious to converse upon re- 
ligious subjects; and she was again upon the point 
of writing to Pastor Muller to visit him, when, to her 
surprise and joy, she received one from him, saying 
that he was already there. 


180 


ERNA STARK. 


Only from this old and valued friend did she hope 
to receive the information which she craved above all 
other, for only he knew the early history of the sick 
man, and could minister to his needs as could none 
else. 

Through Hermann Ehlert, he had heard of the 
accidental meeting of Erna with Dr. Fortescue, and 
had felt it to be his duty to tell the young pastor the 
whole affair of the attachment between them years 
before, and of his conversation with Erna before her 
departure for Switzerland. 

The sympathy of Hermann Ehlert was much in- 
creased for Erna when he heard of the burden of 
anxiety she had borne. He saw that she had nothing 
but friendship to bestow upon him, but advised, or at 
least seconded. Pastor MiillePs journey to Berlin, and 
did all he could to assist him in making preparations 
for his departure. 

The letter from her fatherly friend brought the 
good news that Dr. Fortescue was a changed man, 
had given his heart to God, and was eager to converse 
on things which pertain to eternal life. 

Erna’s heart thrilled with gratitude to God for this 
wonderful deliverance, it being another proof that he 
hears and answers prayer. The weak condition of 


ERNA STARK. 


181 


the sick man prevented any more conversation than 
was absolutely necessary ; but Pastor Muller informed 
her that Fortescue wished to use what strength he 
could summon to write or dictate a confession to her. 
He had made his peace with God, and now only 
longed for her forgiveness. 

So, as far as his earthly life is concerned, dear 
Fraulein Erna,^^ wrote the old pastor, can give 
you but little hope ; yet with me you will, I know, 
praise and bless the dear Lord who has led this 
darkened soul into marvelous light. I must not tell 
you the story, but let him tell you of his coming 
home to his Father’s house.” 

And Erna kissed little Leila, and wept happy tears 
over the letter. 


CHAPTER XII. 


THE CONFESSION 


OU must have left Berlin in the first train 



after receiving my telegram/^ said Erna one 


evening, a few days after receiving his letter, as she 
grasped the hand of Pastor Muller at the door of her 
cottage. 

did. I was expecting it, having heard through 
Eric that Frau Frederica was growing daily weaker. 
I came as soon as possible, after hearing that she was 
no more.’’ 

^^Was ever any one so blest as I in having such a 
friend as yourself? I fear I can never be sufficiently 
grateful to my Master for bestowing the great gift of 
faithful friends and helpers,” said Erna, tearfully. 

Pastor Muller had taken the long journey to 
Montreaux to help arrange for the burial of Frau 
Fredrica, and to accompany Fraulein Erna and his 
niece Clara back to Berlin, and from thence to their 
home. 

In that favored climate the air was mild and 


182 


ERNA STARK. 


183 


invigorating, and Erna was sitting in the veranda 
when he came, looking at the ever new effect of light 
and shadow upon the mountains, though her thoughts 
were far away. 

Pastor Muller took the large arm chair she eagerly 
offered, and sank into it with a sigh of content. Th( 
outlook upon the beautiful lake, the white cottages at 
the foot of the mountain, every distinguishing land- 
mark in the beautiful scenery, was a delight to him, 
and he could not express his appreciation of the serene 
grandeur of the place. 

Since coming to Switzerland. Frau Fredrica had 
seemed more willing to leave the seclusion of her 
room and enjoy the mild, strengthening air; yet her 
health did not improve, and, calm and serene, she 
was only waiting to be called home. The summons 
came unexpectedly, for she had seemed much better 
on the day of her departure; and although her death 
was looked upon as something that could not be 
averted, yet Erna was bewildered by the suddenness 
of it. Pastor Muller agreed entirely with her that 
Fredrica should have a grave in Switzerland, one 
reason being that she had been known in the harbor 
town as a professed unbeliever. Although Erna had 
every hope that her once beautiful stepmother had 


184 


ERNA STARK. 


died a Christian, yet she felt that there was no need 
to have the question of her resting in the Stark vault 
discussed when it could be avoided. 

Erna had performed her duty faithfully to her 
poor, feeble-minded stepmother, and had done it 
ungrudgingly ; soon, all she could do for her would 
be done, and she would be free to go whither she 
would. Every obstacle which prevented her from 
visiting the friend of her early youth was now re- 
moved ; above and beyond all, they were children of 
one Father, — one in faith, in love, and in hope. 

All arrangements for the burial of Fredrica were 
made while Erna sat with Pastor Muller and Clara 
that evening upon the veranda, and then she inquired 
eagerly for Dr. Fortescue. 

^^All is well with him,’^ replied the aged pastor; 

but I must return as quickly as I can to Berlin, for 
he counts the hours until he sees me. He longs to 
converse with me upon things which, during life, he 
has so neglected ; and as much as this charming place 
tempts me, I must give him all the companionship I 
can.’^ 

It was a blessed moment to Erna when she heard 
the glad tidings of Dr. Fortescue’s conversion, and 
she looked back with tears of happiness to the time 


EENA STAEK. 


185 


when little Phillis had been touched with the power 
of the Spirit, and, through her, four others. 

‘^Mauy years have passed since you met,’^ continued 
Pastor Muller, and there will be some things that 
will be painful for you to hear and for him to reveal. 
You will have much to forgive in him, much to 
overlook.’^ 

‘‘Our Heavenly Father has also much to forgive,^^ 
replied Erna. “I must not act the part of the man 
who owed his king ten thousand talents, and when 
the debt was forgiven him, went out and had a 
fellow-servant who owed him a hundred pence 
thrown into prison. My indebtedness to my Heav- 
enly Father must be far greater than his who has 
had the temptations of the world to combat from his 
childhood.” 

The pastor made no reply; and at that moment a 
little girl came up the path and quietly ascended the 
steps of the veranda. It was Leila, and in her hands 
she held some lovely white flowers. 

“ Here, lady,” said she, gently, “ I bring you 
flowers for the dead.” 

“ Who is the little girl ? ” questioned the pastor in 
surprise, as he gazed intently at the child. 

“ Her name is Leila Arnaud, and she lives with 


186 


ERNA STARK. 


her grandmother in a cottage in the valley,” replied 
Erna, while she wondered to herself if the pastor also 
saw the wonderful resemblance to one whom they both 
knew ; but for some feeling, for which she could not 
account, she said nothing. 

Leila had leaned confidingly against the shoulder 
of Erna, and was looking at the strange visitor, while 
Erna smoothed the glossy hair reflectively and thought 
of the coming separation. 

Occupied with these thoughts, she did not notice 
that the pastor was steadily observing the child. At 
length, apparently feeling that it might attract Erna’s 
attention, he requested her to tell him something of 
Frau Fredrica’s last hours. 

We always assisted her to come out into the 
veranda of evenings,” replied Erna, “ and she seemed 
to enjoy the beautiful scenery. Evening before last 
she came out as usual, and Clara and I had walked 
into the garden and culled some fragrant flowers for 
mamma. When I offered them to her, she did not 
respond, and we thought she was asleep ; but when we 
came nearer, we found she would no more wake in 
this world.” 

Both were silent, and their gaze was turned to the 
distant mountains. 


ERNA STARK. 


187 


How beautiful ! — how very beautiful it is here ! 
remarked the old pastor. 

It is/’ replied Erna ; yet I often feel oppressed 
by the grandeur and nearness of the mountains, and 
long, inexpressibly, for the stirring breezes from the 
sea, which I have been accustomed to in my home.” 

But you lived several of the best years of your 
life in Switzerland,” remarked her friend. 

Yes; but I was always busy. I had an object in 
life, and was looking forward always to going home. 
This time I have been only waiting. But Clara has 
summoned us to tea; we will leave the veranda in 
good time, for the evening air is quite cool.” 

They arose and entered the cottage, where Clara 
and the maid had prepared a comfortable repast, 
much enjoyed by the traveler ; and after an hour or 
two of conversation, evening prayers were offered, 
and all retired early, the long journey making it 
necessary for Pastor Muller, while the others were also 
in need of rest after their long service of watching. 

The next evening found them all again in the 
veranda. The world-weary Fredrica was reposing in 
the bosom of kind mother earth, and they had every 
hope that her spirit had rejoined her loved ones on 
the brighter shore. 


188 


ERNA STARK. 


Erna would have left for Berlin the next morning, 
but Pastor Muller had business in Geneva, and asked 
her to remain a day longer that he might attend to it. 

She had hoped that he would tell her more of 
Fortescue, but he had been singularly reticent since 
the evening of his arrival, and she disliked to suggest 
the subject when she felt that he was avoiding it. 

The next morning, before setting out for Geneva, 
he handed her a letter, which she recognized imme- 
diately as being in the handwriting of Fortescue. 

The Ehlert brothers, like myself, remarked the 
pastor, are astonished at the wonderful dealings of 
God with his creatures, and praise him that poor 
Fortescue has at length thrown himself at the foot of 
the cross. He longs to hear of Christ’s work upon 
earth, and rejoices over every addition to his strength 
that enables him to listen. He knows that his recov- 
ery is impossible, but is willing to go at his Master’s 
bidding.” 

In the unsteady hand of weakness the letter had 
been penned, and Pastor Muller informed her that 
it had been written at many different times, and was 
intrusted to him, to be placed in Erna’s own hand. 

Erna took the letter, but could not for a moment 
speak. 


ERNA STARK. 


189 


In it you will see how, through many dark and 
devious ways, the poor wanderer has at length reached 
the light.'’ 

Erna thanked the pastor for his words of comfort, 
and as he bade her good-morning, she hastened to her 
room, and opened her letter, a portion of which is 
here given : 

My Dear Erna : Let me call you by that loved name, as 
I did for the short time that I was permitted to consider you 
as mine. I was unworthy of you ; but now, as I stand at the 
portal of the grave, I pray you to forgive me, and let me see 
you again. God has forgiven my sins, and you, my Ema, 
will, I know, forgive me. Your pitying care has provided me 
with comforts in these my last hours, and my turning to the 
Saviour is, I fully believe, in answer to the prayers you have 
offered for me. Like the thief on the cross, I have come at 
the eleventh hour ; but sufficient is it that I have come. 
When I left your presence, ten years ago, it was not without 
a stricken conscience, for your words not only left an impres- 
sion upon me, but I carried away with me the thought of you 
as I saw you kneeling beneath your father’s portrait, and the 
vision has never left me. It filled me with anger and chagrin 
that I could not forget it. I did all I could to fulfill to the 
utmost the threat I made. I had the will to plunge into any 
excess of evil, which would be my revenge for your refusal 
to be my wife ; yet I could not doubt you loved me, for 
I saw what it cost you to give me up. 

Of my life since I came here, my Erna, you know : you 


190 


ERNA STARK. 


finished the work of benevolence commenced by another, and 
through your kindness I have a comfortable home in which to 
pass my few remaining hours. I long now to hear from your 
lips that you have forgiven me. It is my great hope that you 
will be my wife. Be mine, as we are both the Lord’s. It 
is the prayer of the dying Fortesctje. 

Wlien Erna finished the letter, she knelt down and 
gave thanks to God for his great mercy and goodness. 
He had answered her prayers. Fortescue was a 
Christian ; for this she gave thanks and praise, and 
looked forward to the morrow when she would see 
him. 

Pastor Muller appeared in the evening, and Erna 
with Clara was sitting upon the veranda, anxiously 
expecting him. He led little Leila by the hand, and 
Erna welcomed them heartily, drawing the child to 
her and kissing her white forehead. She looked into 
the dark eyes of the girl, and her own grew moist 
with sadness at the thought that this was the last 
evening that the dear little form would be near her. 

At that moment she happened to look up at Pastor 
Muller, and noticed a peculiar look upon his face. 

‘^Heavenly Father,^’ cried she, pale with emotion, 

this may be Fortescue’s daughter ! 

Has it really never come to you until now, Frau- 
lein Erna ? questioned her old friend. 


ERNA STARK. 


191 


“Never. I noticed the resemblance when I first 
saw her, but as I became acquainted with her, I 
ceased to notice it ; and not knowing until I read the 
letter that he had a daughter, the thought never 
occurred to me.” 

The old pastor, knowing the story, had recognized 
the child the first time he saw her, by her won- 
derful resemblance to Dr. Fortescue Stark, and had 
gone to Geneva for the purpose of making inquiry. 
He had searched the church registry and found the 
name of Leila Arnaud Stark, daughter of Dr. For- 
tescue and Hortense Moran Stark, his wife ; and had 
then visited the grandmother, and gained her consent 
that her great-grandchild should accompany them to 
Berlin, in obedience to the father’s earnest desire. 

“ I will beg him to give her to me,” said Erna, 
with tears of joy in her eyes. “ Oh, I hope I may 
get the grandmother’s consent to keep her.” 

“ I do not think you have anything to fear from 
her. She is very old, and the care of the little girl is 
probably a severe tax upon her, no matter how much 
she loves her.” 

“ I shall provide for the grandmother also,” replied 
Erna. “ Her last days shall be made comfortable, if 
money can make them so.” 


192 


EENA STAEK. 


The next morning, before leaving for Berlin, they 
visited the cottage of the grandmother, and all 
arrangements were made for taking Leila with them. 
Then the little household set out upon the journey, 
and to the great joy of Fortescue, his little daughter 
was brought to him by Erna. His happiness was 
complete when Pastor Muller spoke the words which 
united him to her whom he had once lost ; and she 
promised to be a mother to his child, both to remain 
with him until he was called home. 

Pastor Miilller, knowing that it would not be long, 
remained also, and was the comfort to them, wFich he 
ever w^as to those in need. 

One morning, but a few days after, Frau Erna 
Stark, clad in deep mourning for her loved husband, 
returned a widow to her ancestral home, feeling that 
years had passed over her since she had left it, so 
much had occurred of happiness and sorrow. 


THE END. 


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